Police said Sixth Street between Red River Street and San Jacinto Boulevard will be closed to vehicle traffic until 4 a.m. Saturday.

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department (APD) plans to close a portion of Sixth Street in Downtown Austin on Friday night to keep Halloween celebrators safe.

Previously, part of Sixth Street was closed to traffic every weekend evening. However, since January, the city has allowed cars to drive on the road during the weekends to address crime concerns. In February, the department said the strategy was flexible and police might close the street to traffic at any time.

On Thursday, Oct. 30, APD announced that it expects to see many more people in the entertainment district for Halloween, so it’s closing off the road Friday night to keep people safe. Officers also said they want to make sure drivers are prepared for delays.

APD Cmdr. Carey Chaudoir said APD aims to make sure everyone in the area has a fun time safely. 

“This weekend draws a big crowd,” Chaudoir said. “Everyone likes to show off their costumes; it’s a fun time. We want everybody to have a good time, but be responsible as well, and most of all, be safe.”

Sixth Street will be closed to vehicle traffic between Red River Street and San Jacinto Boulevard from 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, until 4 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1.Â