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Richmond RCMP Ticket Drivers as Cherry Blossom Crowds Snarl Russ Baker Way

Targeted enforcement aims to protect traffic flow during the short bloom.

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People take selfies and photos of cherry blossom trees at Larry Berg Flight Path Park, in Richmond, B.C., on Tuesday. RCMP say the cherry blossoms are stopping traffic and drawing large crowds and that officers conducted targeted enforcement at the site over the weekend due to dozens of vehicles illegally parked, disrupting traffic and creating safety hazards.
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Overview

  • Police in Richmond reported heavy crowding at Larry Berg Flight Path Park near Vancouver International Airport, where drivers stopped illegally along Russ Baker Way to view the blossoms.
  • Targeted enforcement led officers to issue 32 violation tickets, give numerous verbal warnings, and tow two unoccupied vehicles for parking and stopping violations.
  • The City of Richmond posted a cherry blossom safety notice that flags traffic backups, jaywalking, illegal parking, and blocked access for emergency vehicles in known hot spots.
  • Richmond RCMP urged visitors to park only in designated areas, use marked crosswalks, and follow posted no-stopping signs to reduce hazards for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Festival organizers said thousands attended managed events at David Lam Park with few incidents, and they asked visitors to treat the trees with care as brief kanzan blooms arrive in April.