ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A series of downtown Atlanta road closures were announced Thursday afternoon ahead of what are widely expected to be charges coming from the Fulton County district attorney’s office investigation into former President Donald Trump.
According to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Pryor Street between MLK Drive and Mitchell Street will be closed to general traffic, beginning Aug. 7, at 5 a.m., through Aug. 18. The two right lanes of Pryor Street between MLK and Mitchell will be parking for media, designated by bike racks.
“The courthouse and Fulton County Government Center will still be open to the public, so pedestrian traffic is allowed on Pryor Street,” according to a sheriff’s department statement. “There will be no public parking allowed anywhere on the perimeter of the courthouse on either side of the street. Vehicle traffic will be allowed on Central, MLK, and Mitchell.”
Fulton County Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Natalie Ammons said courthouse and resident safety are priorities.
“There are thousands of people that come through this area and this footprint and that is the main goal, to keep everyone safe,” Ammons said. “People still have business to conduct with Fulton County, so we want to make it as safe as possible but still accessible to the public.”
Atlanta News First asked how prepared law enforcement is for any large crowds or unrest that could happen.
“We are ready,” Ammons said.
Georgia State Patrol (GSP) confirmed they’re also on standby in the event of protests.
“We are working with local agencies, monitoring all intelligence, and will act appropriately. We are a support agency. If they call, we are coming,” said Cpt. Michael Burns with GSP.
