On August 21, communities from Oregon to South Carolina will experience a total eclipse of the sun—the first total solar eclipse in 38 years to cross the continental United States. And many of these communities are expecting flocks of tourists that will strain local services.

A recent article in Route Fifty previewed the impact by zeroing in on two local governments in Oregon managed by ICMA members—Madras (Gus Burril, city administrator) and Bend (Eric King, city manager). Those cities are anticipating the challenges that accompany the influx of sightseers—road capacity and traffic congestion, waste management, urgent medical care, and supplies of gasoline, groceries, accommodations, and other necessities.

NASA maintains a website devoted to the eclipse, with scientific and practical information about eclipses, viewing safety, local events, resources, and a forthcoming press kit.

ICMA is interested in hearing from communities that are in the path of the eclipse. Are you a prime viewing location? How many visitors do you expect? What are you doing to prepare? Are you planning local events?

Let us know by commenting here, or contact me by email at bmoore@icma.org.