Airport neighbors brace for traffic jams on Friday during election campaign

MILWAUKEE – Political attention turns to Milwaukee on Friday, November 1st.

With former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris arriving this evening, those traveling around the city and near the airport can expect temporary traffic closures.

Previous coverage: https://www.tmj4.com/america-votes/both-presidential-candidates-scheduled-to-visit-milwaukee-on-friday

Former President Trump is expected to arrive around 5:50 p.m. and leave at 8:45 p.m., according to local law enforcement officials. Vice President Harris will arrive around 8:05 p.m. and leave around 10:00 a.m. Saturday.

Near the airport, E. Layton Avenue between S. Howell and S. Pennsylvania will be closed during arrivals and departures. Highway 794 will also be temporarily closed.

For businesses and neighbors on Layton Avenue, this means many navigational changes.

Marisa Matthiesen’s district ranks first during these high-profile political visits.

“When candidates come to town or any celebrity supporting a candidate, our whole street is clogged with cars,” Matthiesen said.

Mike Beyermeister

With traffic changes, she is already preparing for visitors to be able to stop and look at the planes and motorcades.

“I’m really excited that they’ll both be here tomorrow, but I’m definitely going to leave work early tomorrow to avoid the traffic,” Matthiesen said.

Watch: Airport neighbors brace for traffic jams on Friday during election campaign

Airport neighbors brace for traffic jams on Friday during election campaign

Restaurants like In Plane View are also preparing for the temporary closure of the main corridor.

Michelle works there as a bartender. She told TMJ4 that Fridays are one of their busiest nights due to the fish fry.

Mike Beyermeister

She advises clients to park in side streets to avoid getting stuck. Law enforcement agencies will block the sidewalks in front of the house and the parking lot.

However, getting stuck isn’t always a bad thing because of the view from the restaurant.

“It’s great because they come right here to sign and you can see them,” Michel said. “You see them passing by and getting closer; you see them get on the plane, so that’s cool.”

Her biggest tip is to plan ahead and arrive early.

Harris’ event at State Fair Park is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. The Trump rally will begin at 7 p.m.

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