Traffic officials in Pudong are preparing for the opening of the Shanghai Oriental Arts Center on Friday night, which is expected to attract thousands of people and could lead to congested roads.
The new center, located opposite the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, features a 2,000-seat symphony hall, a 1,100-seat theater and a 300-seat auditorium. The police expect more than 3,600 people to visit the center on Dingxiang Road on Friday, bringing about 900 vehicles into the area at peak times.
In addition to a small underground garage in the center, there are three parking lots nearby, providing nearly 1,200 parking spaces.
'Audience members are encouraged to take public transport instead of driving their own cars, so as to reduce traffic jams,' said Wang Lumin, an officer.
The city's No. 2 Metro Line is perhaps the best public transport facility for those heading to the center. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the station at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum to the center. Besides, 12 bus routes pass the area, with four going across the Huangpu River. Several spots will be established for people to get in and out of taxis without blocking roads.
'We won't take any measures before the performance starts because the audience flow won't concentrate at the time. When the performance is over, the police will give directions and vehicles won't be allowed to make left turns,' said Wang, adding that a number of street signs will be set up to help drivers find their way.
