Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024

The City of Toledo is gearing up for the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024! Grab your certified eclipse viewing glasses and plan to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event with loved ones.

City Operational Plans
City offices will close at 12:30 p.m. on April 8th. Residents can still report concerns 24 hours a day to Engage Toledo at 419-936-2020 or through the customer portal. Trash and recycling collection services will remain on their normal weekly schedule.

While emergency services will monitor activity throughout the day, no road closures are planned. Residents should anticipate increased traffic and are encouraged to plan for delays along their travel routes. ODOT has published a traffic forecasting map to help residents anticipate slowdowns.

Stay Safe
In addition to protecting your eyes, be prepared and plan ahead to keep you and your family safe if you're traveling. Ohio EMA has put together a full guide on safety and preparedness, here are a few of their tips:

• Understand that cell service may be disrupted due to high usage. If possible, use Wi-Fi-based communication, bring backup paper maps, and set a meeting location in case you are separated from friends and family.
• Pre-plan your route. Know your destination and where you plan to park in advance so you can view the eclipse safely. Do not pull off the side of a roadway to view the eclipse, and do not park on privately owned land without permission from the property owner.
• Keep your gas tank topped off. Understand that heavy traffic may impact your travel, and plan ahead with extra medication, batteries, blankets, a change of clothing, chargers, snacks, and water.
• Do not call 9-1-1 for traffic jams unless it is a life-safety emergency.

Have Fun
Three city parks will host eclipse viewing parties from 1 to 5 p.m. The parties will feature a live DJ, games, food, and fun for all. Free certified safety viewing glasses will be available while supplies last. Bring your own chairs, blankets, and non-alcoholic refreshments.

1. Promenade Park
   400 Water Street
   
2. Joe E. Brown Park
   150 W Oakland St, Toledo, OH 43608
   
3. Navarre Park
   Between Woodville Rd. and E. Broadway. Behind East Toledo Family Center

Remember that NASA will release high-quality photos of the eclipse afterward, so use your phone to capture photos and videos of loved ones instead! We'd love to see them, use hashtag #ToledoEclipse when you share on social media.

Happy viewing!