Motorists be advised: Thurday morning, depending on where you drive, could be challenging. The afternoon could be, as well.
The funeral procession for the two Santa Cruz police officers killed in the line of duty last week will tie up traffic from Santa Cruz to San Jose. The California Highway Patrol is advising motorists to find alternate routes into San Jose.
The memorial service for fallen Santa Cruz Police Sgt. Loran "Butch" Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler is set for noon at HP Pavilion in San Jose.
A motorcade of Santa Cruz County fire, law and emergency vehicles will leave the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk around 8:45 a.m., heading through Santa Cruz to northbound Highway 17. It's expected to be a mile long, authorities reported.
People cannot join the motorcade. Other vehicles are welcome to follow behind the procession at a safe distance, according to CHP officer Sarah Jackson.
The motorcade will travel Highway 17 in the fast lane, traveling between 30-40 mph, media has reported. Other vehicles will be confined to the slow lane, where they cannot pass one another.
The motorcade is due to arrive at HP Pavilion between 10:30 and 11 a.m.
This is the procession route, picking up from Los Gatos, to San Jose:
- Highway 17 Northbound
- Highway 85 Southbound
- Highway 87 Northbound
- Exit Julian Street
- Left on Autumn Street
- Arrive at Santa Clara Street
CHP reminded people watching the procession to stay on sidewalks and out of the road.
Those attending the memorial service in San Jose are advised to car pool or use public transportation.
Popular west-east routes including Soquel-San Jose Road and Highway 9 are not suggested due to existing traffic volumes, which will result in unnecessary delays.
For traffic advisory and procession updates, follow Golden Gate Division CHP on Twitter @CHP_GoldenGate.
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