Eugene Police issue traffic advisory ahead of UO Commencement expected to draw 30,000 people

Eugene, OR – The Eugene Police Department has issued a traffic advisory ahead of the University of Oregon Commencement on June 15, an event expected to bring as many as 30,000 people to the Autzen Stadium area.

According to the department, heavy traffic is anticipated between 7 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Coburg Road, and surrounding areas near the University of Oregon campus. The Eugene Police Traffic Safety Unit, along with other EPD personnel, will be on scene to manage traffic flow in a manner similar to home football game operations.

Officials are advising motorists who do not need to be in the area to plan alternate routes in order to avoid congestion during peak travel times.

Police recommend using alternative routes such as the Washington/Jefferson Street Bridge, Delta Highway, Cal Young Road, Harlow Road, Goodpasture Island Road, and Green Acres/Crescent Avenue to help reduce congestion around Coburg Road and the Ferry Street area.

Authorities are also encouraging the use of alternative transportation options, including walking, biking, or public transit, to reach the Autzen Stadium area. Eugene police noted that the city’s pedestrian paths and bike lanes provide multiple access points for event attendees.

For those attending the commencement ceremony, officials stressed the importance of planning ahead. Motorists are encouraged to map out travel routes in advance and identify parking locations before arriving, as normal traffic patterns around Autzen Stadium will be significantly altered for the event.

Police also reminded the public to obey all traffic laws and follow posted cone patterns and directions from officers on scene. Authorities emphasized that traffic control devices in the area must be followed, and failure to comply could result in citations of up to $300.

With tens of thousands of people expected in the area, officials are urging patience from drivers and attendees. Eugene police stated that managing the flow of traffic for such a large event requires time, and delays should be expected throughout the day.