Traffic Alert: Penn State game

More than 100,000 fans and their vehicles are expected in and around The Ohio State University on Saturday as the Buckeyes host the Penn State Nittany Lions at 8 p.m. at Ohio Stadium.

Since it is a night game, traffic after the game is expected to be heavy since most fans will not linger to tailgate. Fans should be aware that the time it takes to exit campus after the game may double since many fans will be leaving at the same time.

The City of Columbus will implement a parking ban at 9 a.m. on Saturday through 8 a.m. on Sunday. The ban affects cars on Lane Avenue between Tuller Street and Indianola Avenue, both sides of the street; and Chittenden Avenue between High Street and Summit Street, both sides of the street. Details are available here.

Fans exiting the campus are asked to be extra alert and patient.

Here are the top five things to know about traffic for the OSU-Penn State game:

•Since it will be dark at kickoff and after the game, drivers are asked to be especially careful and alert for traffic officers in the street. This applies to both pre- and post-game traffic. Pedestrians should cross in crosswalks, use sidewalks, and be alert for drivers who may not see them.

•Post game - unlike daytime games, fans will not stick around to tailgate at midnight. The standard time it takes to exit – usually 45 minutes to one hour – is at minimum expected to double to 1.5 - 2 hours.

•University parking lots will be available for day of game parking beginning at 10:30 a.m. and shuttles will begin at 11 a.m. The university lot for RV pre-paid parking will open at 5 a.m.

•RV parking is sold out for the Penn State (and Michigan) game, so fans without an RV pass will be unable to bring their vehicle to campus. RV overflow parking is very limited in Columbus this week because the All American Quarterhorse Congress currently underway at the Ohio Expositions Center. SEE: http://www.tp.osu.edu/Events/football.shtml

•Fans are reminded that police will enforce all laws regarding open containers and driving under the influence. Do not drive if you are too tired or have been drinking.