Savannah St. Patrick’s Day preparations continue amid rain and wind

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -With St. Patrick’s Day one day away, preparations along Savannah’s parade route are moving forward amid rain and wind, city officials said Monday.

City leaders said most of the setup and road closures will take place after the worst of the weather moves through. A dedicated group of city staff is working 12-hour shifts to ensure barricades are in place ahead of the parade.

Participants in Lafayette Square said the conditions were not enough to keep them away. Some attendees were adjusting tents and chairs to prevent them from blowing away.

“We’re out here, rain or shine,” said Dick Albaugh.

Cam Turner, also set to participate in the running of the squares, said those planning to stay overnight need to prepare for the cooler temperatures.

“I’ll be in bed tonight. But for the gentlemen that have the overnight shift, yeah, they need to bundle up and get ready,” Turner said.

Alderman Detric Leggett said city staff are focused on having everything ready before the festivities begin.

“We do have a special group of city staff that are working 12-hour shifts. And they’re going to make sure that everything is going to be prepared, and all of the barricades are up,” Leggett said.

Leggett added that the city’s goal is a safe and enjoyable event for all attendees.

“We’re going to do everything we can to make sure everybody’s smiling at the end of tomorrow,” Leggett said.

The Running of the Squares is scheduled to begin at 6 a.m. sharp.