ATLANTA — Street and parking closures will continue outside the Fulton County Courthouse through at least Saturday, Aug. 26 as it braces for high-profile court appearances. This comes after an indictment was handed down charging Former President Donald Trump and 18 other individuals in connection with alleged attempts to overturn the state 2020 election results.
Security began stepping up with barriers being put in place around the courthouse in early August. Barricades, police presence and street closures will continue through much of the month, the sheriff's office said.
The Atlanta Department of Transportation announced that a southbound lane of Pryor Street SW outside the courthouse, between MLK Jr. Drive SW and Mitchell Street SW, will be closed during that period. This means traffic will flow through only one lane of traffic along Pryor Street.
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The department also noted that parking on any perimeter street around the courthouse, on either side, will be discontinued during this period. That will affect Pryor Street, MLK Jr. Drive, Central Avenue and Mitchell Street.
The Atlanta DOT did say vehicle traffic will continue to be allowed on MLK Jr. Drive, Central Avenue and Mitchell Street.
"Motorists should observe all 'NO PARKING' signs on surrounding streets, as parking restrictions will be strictly enforced," a statement said. "This traffic control plan is subject to change. Updated information will be shared as it becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation."
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis praised Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat's security measures after announcing the indictments.
"I would also like to thank the men and women of Sheriff Labat's office for keeping the courthouse open, but most importantly, for keeping us safe over the weeks and months that have led up to this indictment," she said.
Atlanta Police Department said it is also closely looking at updates from Willis' office and is ready to assist the sheriff's office.
A MARTA spokesperson said there are no plans to close rail stations or stop service on any routes near the Capitol or the courthouse. MARTA officials added if bus routes have to be changed, it will notify riders on all of its platforms.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the city relies on several agencies to keep people safe.
"I stand here right now doing my job to make sure I coordinate with federal, state, and other local partners to make sure our city is safe, to make sure the court proceedings can take place without any kind of interference and that the grounds around the city are going to be kept in order," Dickens said.
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