The City of Richmond is reminding residents and visitors to prioritize safety and plan ahead as cherry blossom season returns to Richmond. Each year, the popular seasonal display attracts tens of thousands of visitors, resulting in significant traffic congestion, pedestrian safety concerns and parking challenges in key areas, particularly along Russ Baker Way and in Steveston Village.

Cherry blossom season typically runs from late March through April, with peak visitation occurring on weekends and sunny days. In previous years, high visitor volumes have contributed to unsafe conditions, including traffic backups, jaywalking, illegal parking and limited emergency vehicle access.

“Richmond’s cherry blossoms are a beautiful seasonal attraction that residents and visitors look forward to each year,” said Dammy Ogunseitan, City spokesperson. “Everyone plays an important role in helping keep these areas safe. By planning ahead, using designated parking and following traffic and pedestrian safety measures, visitors can enjoy the blossoms while helping protect the community.”

Key safety and traffic considerations include:

• Russ Baker Way: Heavy traffic congestion, limited safe crossing areas and overflow street parking, especially on weekends from 10:00am to 5:00pm
  
• Garry Point Park and Steveston Village: Increased pedestrian activity, pedestrian-vehicle conflicts, jaywalking and parking saturation, particularly on weekends and holidays from 11:00am to 6:00pm
  
• No. 1 Road and Westminster Highway: Secondary congestion caused by rerouted traffic during peak visitation periods

Visitors are encouraged to:

• Use designated parking areas and avoid stopping or parking illegally
  
• Follow all posted traffic signs and instructions from traffic control personnel
  
• Cross only at marked crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals
  
• Consider walking, cycling or using public transit where possible
  
• Allow extra travel time and plan visits during off-peak hours when feasible

City staff will continue to monitor conditions and implement traffic management and safety measures as needed to help ensure safe access for residents, visitors and emergency services.

For more information and updates, visit richmondcherryblossomfest.ca or follow the City’s official social media channels.