Business & Finance

Franklin Street Prepares for Halloween and Game Day Crowds

By Cindy Bae

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) – Halloween and a UNC football game are expected to draw large crowds to Franklin Street on Saturday, boosting local businesses and prompting additional public‑safety measures. For longtime Franklin Street business Sutton’s Drug Store, the weekend also serves as a reminder of the area’s past. "Having that feeling of coming to Franklin Street saying hey, it reminds me of home," said Joe Vizzari. "It doesn’t remind you of that as much anymore. But, with the sports and everything going on, the kids are starting to try to bring back some of those things." Vizzari, who works at Sutton’s Drug Store that has been on Franklin Street for more than a century, said the area still maintains a festive atmosphere during major events. "It’s still pretty festive," he added. "The college kids get really involved, and the businesses are going to be open a little later. I think tomorrow will be one of those days where it reminds you of the old Franklin Street." While Franklin Street may not look the way it did years ago, businesses hope the holiday will bring back some of the energy associated with past celebrations. Students said Halloween continues to attract larger crowds than a typical weekend night. "Franklin Street on game days and on bigger Friday or Saturday nights are crowded, but Halloween’s just different," said Roy Richards. "I think more people go out than they usually have." With Franklin Street remaining open this year, law‑enforcement officials said their focus will be on crowd management and pedestrian safety. "There is a lot of traffic on game days, and I know Halloween will probably make that worse," said Olivia Vorhis. Officials expect heavy pedestrian traffic and congestion Saturday night and will have additional police officers and firefighters on hand. Police are urging visitors to allow extra travel time and watch for pedestrians. UNC is scheduled to play No. 1 Miami at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. The game will air on ABC11.