Expect traffic congestion for Luke Bryan concert in Atwater

ATWATER, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Planning to go to the Luke Bryan concert in Atwater on Thursday? If so, there might need to be some planning ahead to ensure a smooth experience.

Bryan is performing at the Castle Airport in Atwater on May 14 for his Farm Tour, which means there is expected to be significant traffic congestion. Parking for his concert opens at 2 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the concert begins at 6 p.m.

California Highway Patrol says the anticipated traffic congestion will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. As well as 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

CHP is giving tips on how to leave the concert and notifying the public of closures and detours.

Here’s how to exit the concert grounds if leaving through the Airdome Entry (Castle Airport Main Gate):

• Turn right onto Santa Fe Drive (toward Winton)
• Or go straight on Buhach Road (heading south)
• No left turns will be allowed on Santa Fe Drive (toward Merced)

If exiting from the Spaceport Entry:

• People will only be able to turn left onto Santa Fe Drive (toward Merced)
• Right turns from this exit will not be allowed

CHP says if people stay on Buhach Road, they will not be able to turn onto any side streets through Atwater. Everyone will be directed south to Greensands Avenue, where there will be access to the Atwater Expressway, and they will be able to head north on Highway 99.

There will be ramp closures at the Atwater Expressway starting at 9 p.m. The southbound on-ramp will be closed. Both off-ramps (northbound and southbound) will also be closed.

CHP says officers will be stationed at key intersections to assist with traffic control and help keep vehicles moving, expediting the flow of traffic. This includes Buhach Road and Santa Fe Drive.

CHP adds that after the concert, the designated rideshare and pickup zone will be located at 3009 Stratofortress Drive. This area will only be accessible via Santa Fe Drive and Franklin Road and will be closed to through traffic.