Park City announces pedestrian-only Main Street for 2025 Sundance Film Festival

Chief Wade Carpenter of the Park City Police Department. Photo: TownLift // Rebecca Brenner

PARK CITY, Utah—Park City Police Chief Wade Carpenter announced Wednesday that Main Street will close to vehicular traffic during the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. The closure, effective Thursday, Jan. 23, aims to enhance public safety amid the festival’s significant pedestrian activity and crowded conditions.

“We understand closing Main Street to vehicles improves public safety but also may temporarily inconvenience locals and small businesses,” Carpenter said. “After careful consideration and consultation with several important federal, state, and local public safety agencies and event partners, it became clear that this was the necessary and correct decision.”

Carpenter underscored the city’s proactive approach to security, referencing lessons learned from incidents in other cities. “In light of what happened in New Orleans, we’re always evaluating risk and assessing that risk,” he said. “We also take into consideration what’s happening across the country and the world, especially with Sundance falling on the heels of the inauguration. There’s a lot of potential risks that we need to evaluate.”

Safety Enhancements and Accessibility

The decision follows extensive discussions with agencies including the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Public Safety, the FBI, and Homeland Security. The closure will resemble measures implemented during the Park City Arts Festival, with barricades controlling access and designated areas for talent drop-offs, deliveries, and ADA accommodations.

The closure begins midday Thursday, Jan. 23, and will remain in effect for the festival’s duration, tentatively scheduled to end Sunday, Feb. 2. Carpenter emphasized that the timeline is subject to change based on ongoing evaluations.

“In addition to securing Main Street, we’re making accommodations to ensure access for deliveries, ADA compliance, and other needs while maintaining a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere,” Carpenter said. “This proactive approach ensures a safe environment for festival-goers while keeping businesses accessible.”

A Collaborative Effort

The city will establish taxi and ride-share drop-off points at Lower Main Street and Upper Marsac Avenue, with transit stops spaced for easy navigation. Main Street businesses will remain open and accessible, with warming centers and other accommodations planned to enhance the pedestrian experience.

Carpenter highlighted the importance of community cooperation, noting that the Park City Police Department is working with the Main Street Business Alliance to minimize disruptions. “We’re making every effort to mitigate traffic issues and ensure the festival is enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to use public transit and avoid driving into Old Town during the event. Updates on access and safety measures will be posted on the city’s website as details become available.

Carpenter concluded with a safety message: “If you see something, say something. Let us know. We’ll have multiple agencies working 24/7 throughout the festival to ensure a safe and successful event.”

For more information visit Park City’s official website.