PEANUT TRAFFIC INCREASES WITH PEANUT FESTIVAL

Traffic seems to be moving rather smoothly today, but you can expect an increase in cars as the week moves on. The Peanut Festival kicks off Friday and with more people coming in town, traffic is expected to be heavier than usual. "Motorists can expect heavier than normal traffic, especially between the fairgrounds and South Oates," says Captain John Givens. The Peanut Festival Fairgrounds may not look crowded now, but you can expect people from all over to travel to Dothan to enjoy the activities. Officers urge you to leave early, otherwise you can expect to be stuck in traffic. "If they want to arrive on time, do leave earlier. Be very aware of the heavy traffic and drive a little slower," says Givens. There will be extra officers on duty to help direct traffic and control any problems. Givens says people should "be patient,". The Police will be working hard but with that volume of traffic, it just may come to a stop. "Well work as hard as we can," he says. It is important to practice safe driving around special events and holidays, but officers say its something you should do everyday, regardless of whats going on. JANA JACOBS-REPORTER WDHN 18