Centennial Parade Traffic Details

Manhattan Beach's centennial parade "100 Years in Manhattan Beach" is two weeks away on Saturday, May 19, beginning at 10 a.m.

At least 100 units are expected to participate in the parade, ranging from a Wells Fargo stagecoach with horses to high school marching bands, according to parade organizer and MB resident Jan Dennis, who is also a former mayor of the city, MB historian and published author.

The parade route basically spans Manhattan Beach Boulevard from Pacific Avenue to Redondo Avenue and culminates in a centennial picnic at Polliwog Park from 12 noon to 3 p.m.

Here's a map of the parade route and road closures.

MBPD Traffic Sergeant Mark Mason told Manhattan Beach Patch that he expects to have nine MBPD community resource officers, seven MBPD officers and at least 26 CSC security staffers devoted to the parade.

Prior to the parade, signs will be positioned on city streets to let drivers know in advance of the detours they should take and/or delays they can expect, he said.

During the parade, Sepulveda Boulevard at MB Boulevard will be open to through traffic at five-minute intervals, said Mason. 

Parade entries, including floats, will line up near Pacific Elementary School and American Martyrs Catholic Community facilities. Mason advises drivers to avoid that area before and during the parade. He said that 17th Street, 14th Street and Laurel and Poinsettia avenues near MB Boulevard and Pacific Avenue will be affected by the parade, however, residents should be able to come and go.

Parade units will be directed to turn into Manhattan Beach Middle School and other designated areas when they complete the parade route.

Here's a video interview and clip of Dennis as produced by Mira Costa High School Mustang Morning News students. It aired on March 23.