Expect plenty of traffic this week as Sweet 16 comes to Rupp

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – City officials are telling drivers to prepare for plenty of traffic this week, as thousands of fans come to Rupp Arena for The Whitaker Bank KHSAA Sweet 16 Basketball Tournament.

The tournament begins at noon on Wednesday, meaning drivers can expect heavy traffic and longer than normal travel times in the downtown area.  Officials are asking drivers coming downtown this week to leave early, to make time for traffic and delays.

“We’re proud to host the Sweet 16. Our downtown will be filled with basketball fans from throughout Kentucky,” Mayor Jim Gray said. “Please join me in welcoming our visitors. And use caution…the roads, sidewalks and parking lots downtown will be crowded.”

In addition to the boys’ tournament, the University of Kentucky women’s basketball team will play UNC Ashville at 4 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Coliseum.