HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Traffic is already picking up on the north side of Hutchinson with the Kansas State Fair. Hutchinson Police Sergeant Brian Hirt says it’s a time when locals need to plan ahead, and most of all be patient of our guests in town for the fair.

“Anyone who has lived here in town for any amount of time knows we double our traffic during the fair,” said Hirt. “That means it takes longer to get places, there are motorist who are not from Hutchinson, we need to plan according, maybe allow maybe 10 minutes more time to get where we’re going.” He also notes that locals should be courteous and patient with those from out of town.

In addition to traffic, there will also be more pedestrian traffic, especially along Main and Plum Streets, but even a lot of side streets near the fairgrounds.

The temporary lights along Main Street just west of the fairgrounds will be activated as they always are. Anyone who runs those lights will be cited with a fine of $109.00 plus court cost.

In addition to Hutchinson Police and the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansas Highway Patrol will have an increased presence in the county as well during the fair.