For those traveling into Downtown Los Angeles from the Westside on May 1, prepare for possible street closures in the name of May Day. Thousands of people will take to the streets of downtown Los Angeles for the annual May Day marches today and urge Congress to take action on legislation overhauling the nation’s immigration system while ending deportations that divide families.
The annual marches traditionally draw throngs of participants and block major traffic routes throughout much of the day. Los Angeles Police Dept. (LAPD) officials urged people to avoid the downtown area if possible and to expect detours if they do drive in the area.
This year’s march is themed “Keeping Families Together,” emphasizing the goal of ending deportations that split parents from their children.
Participants are expected to begin gathering at about 5 a.m. at North Broadway Street and West Cesar Chavez Avenue, waving signs at passing motorists.
At 9 a.m., a group of protesters will rally outside a Burger King on Cesar Chavez to support wage increases for fast-food workers.
The march itself will begin at 10 a.m., starting at the Chinatown Gateway, winding through the downtown area and ending at the Metropolitan Detention Center at 535 North Alameda Street, where a rally will be held.
Multiple streets will be closed in the area — including Broadway between roughly 11th and Temple streets and Hill and Spring streets between Olympic and First Street, according to the LAPD.
Public transit riders can also expect delays and/or detours on various downtown routes. Information on bus routes is available at www.metro.net.
A post on the Los Angeles Fire Dept. (LAFD) blog noted freeway ramp and street closures. The blog post can be found here.
