RCMP has issued a surprising warning about cherry blossoms in Metro Vancouver.
Cherry blossoms are in full bloom around the region, including Richmond, which is where the warning is focused.
In a release, Richmond RCMP said that while Cherry blossoms are beautiful, drivers should not stop on Russ Baker Way near Larry Berg Flight Path Park.
“Stopping along Russ Bakery Way near Larry Berg Flight Path Park is prohibited and creates road safety hazards,” RCMP said in a release.
Richmond RCMP has also done some enforcement in the area with some notable results.
On the weekend of March 28-29, officers conducted targeted traffic enforcement along the 3900 block of Russ Bakery Way. Richmond RCMP said that cherry blossom viewing caused some traffic disruptions and congestion.
Richmond RCMP
Over just two shifts, officers issued 32 violation tickets, gave “numerous” verbal warnings, and had two unoccupied vehicles towed.
“At the height of enforcement, approximately 50 vehicles were observed stopped illegally, contributing to traffic flow and safety concerns.”
Richmond RCMP is reminding drivers that “No Stopping” signs are posted for a reason along this stretch of road.
“Drivers are reminded that these restrictions exist to keep all road and park users safe.”
The RCMP is advising folks who want to view the cherry blossoms to park in designated areas, cross the street at marked crosswalks, and obey pedestrian signals.
Who knew the beauty of cherry blossoms could be so distracting? Thankfully for Richmond RCMP, cherry blossoms in Metro Vancouver tend to bloom for around one to two weeks.