As the Town of Erin gears up for its annual St. Patrick's Day parade set for Monday, March 17, the Washington County Sheriff's Office has issued guidelines to ensure the event runs smoothly, free from traffic and safety troubles that have marred previous celebrations. According to a social media post by the Sheriff's Office, the parade will start at 11:00 am, and vehicle traffic on the route will be stopped from 10:00 am to make way for marchers and attendees.

Anyone planning to attend the festivities should note important changes. In the past, large party areas along CTH K caused traffic and pedestrian issues. To address this, Sergeant Scott Hanson from the Sheriff's Office announced that oversized vehicles (like RVs, motor homes, and campers) and makeshift structures will be banned along the parade route. This policy aims to keep celebrations focused on the parade, speed up post-parade cleanup, and reduce alcohol-related incidents.

The local authority is applying a firm hand to ensure the jubilation does not devolve into chaos, "The presence of oversize vehicles, recreational vehicles, campers, trailers, and the temporary structures associated with these groups contribute to the hazards along the highway," stated Sgt. Hanson, echoing concerns about safety and the smooth progression of the event. Private properties lining the parade route come with their stipulations; while vehicles may access these properties, they cannot remain parked on the route, unauthorized occupation will be considered trespassing and carry consequences, as per the Sheriff's Office.

Additional deputies will be on patrol, focusing on traffic control and OWI enforcement to ensure a safe and enjoyable day. The Sheriff's Office, along with the Town of Erin, is committed to keeping the event safe and orderly, emphasizing that fun should never come at the expense of others' safety and well-being.