KILLEEN, Texas (KWTX) - The City of Killeen will be in The Great American Eclipse’s path of totality on Apr. 8, 2024, and the municipal government is offering residents guidance on how to adapt to the influx of visitors expected in Central Texas for the historic celestial event.
Director of the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Peter Perez said the city has been reaching out to local authorities across the country that experienced a major eclipse in 2017 to get better insight into how to prepare.
Killeen’s population of 160,000 is expected to double over a four-day period.
Killeen has a prime location in the eclipse’s path and the sky will darken at 1:36p.m. in the afternoon, lasting 4 minutes and 16 seconds.
Emergency officials said local citizens must “prepare for the inconvenience” as tens of thousands of people visit the area to experience the eclipse.
GUIDANCE:
- Traffic impact: Heavy congestion is expected on major roads with traffic (Neighborhood/Community roads not expected to be as congested; avoid roads around planned events); Due to the traffic, it may take First Responders longer to arrive to an emergency call.
- Gasoline: Recommended to fill up four days before the eclipse (Apr. 4), which should be enough to last until Apr. 9.
- Groceries: Officials expect this time period to compare to crowds during a busy holiday weekend in stores, so suggest early shopping.
- Wireless Network: “Text if you can, call if you must.” Wireless networks are not expected to crash, but there will be more citizens in our area using cellular devices; A reminder that Bell County 911 has a text option, so if there is a non-life-threatening emergency, it is advised to use that option. Video call services and apps will further slow the network. Home internet may be affected if connected to your cellular network and, if so, it will also be slower.
- Businesses: The City held two business townhalls in 2023; Businesses must prepare for the increase in population; It is recommended that businesses use forecasting systems and stock up as if it’s a special shopping weekend; curbside pickup and online ordering systems will be essential; business and employee hours may need to be adjusted around the eclipse time.
It’s never okay to stare directly at the sun without eyewear and for an event like this, it’s especially dangerous. The Killeen Civic and Conference Center has a limited number of approved solar eclipse glasses available for free, while supplies last. Residents may pick up one pair per person during normal business hours (visitkilleen.com)
It is recommended that solar eclipse glasses have an ISO 12312-2 Safety standard if used. Residents can also contact Central Texas College’s Mayborn Science Center and Planetarium for best advice on proper eyewear for this upcoming solar eclipse.
The Killeen Libraries will also be providing eclipse eyewear. Both the Main and Copper Mountain Branches will host eight informational eclipse sessions during the month of March. They will also have crafts for adults, teens, young children and parents. Citizens must participate in at least one entire 25-minute program session to receive a pair of eclipse glasses. The dates are on www.KilleenTexas.gov/Eclipse and times are tentative.
For those who may be hosting an eclipse watch party, the City has opened a Watch Party form for all to complete. This will be for those who are hosting either private or public events. The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau will have a list of public events on their website. The form can be accessed at www.KilleenTexas.gov/Eclipse.
Due to the heavy crowds and expected congestion, the City is encouraging residents to participate in the “Celebrate Solar at Home” concept. Community members can gather their neighbors or family members and have an event in their own backyard with solar eclipse-themed decorations and eclipse eyewear. CTC’s KNCT-FM 91.3 radio will have live coverage all day and the Killeen CVB will also have a playlist provided.
Killeen has 2,500 rooms in 40 hotels across the city and all brand hotels have been sold out in the area. For rooms that are left, the average price is $300, but going for as much as $900 per night. Citizens can go to www.VisitKilleen.com/SolarEclipse for lodging, dining and more eclipse information. Local businesses have a unique opportunity to attract visitors and increase revenue. The City has also held two business townhalls with the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce that covered topics such as marketing strategies, staffing plans, predicted impact, planned events, and safety measures. More tips can be found at www.KilleenTexas.gov/Eclipse.
City of Killeen offices will be open on Apr. 8, although the Killeen Independent School District and Fort Cavazos have planned to be closed with essential personnel only.
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Killeen’s population expected to double during 4-day period ahead of The Great American Eclipse - KWTX
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