You can’t just pull over at the side of a busy road to take photos in front of a cherry blossom tree.
That’s the message from the Richmond RCMP after a busy weekend of traffic enforcement on Russ Baker Way near Larry Berg Flight Path Park.
On Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, officers spent two shifts monitoring activity near the patch of trees that are currently blooming a gorgeous pink colour.
“At the height of enforcement, approximately 50 vehicles were observed stopped illegally, contributing to traffic flow and safety concerns,” an RCMP release noted.
Police gave many verbal warnings over the course of two days, issued 32 violation tickets and even had to tow a pair of unoccupied vehicles.
“No Stopping signs are posted along this stretch of road,” the release added. “Drivers are reminded that these restrictions exist to keep all road and park users safe.”
Police say they recognize that the beautiful cherry blossom trees around Richmond draw big crowds at this time of year, but they’re encouraging people to enjoy the phenomenon responsibly.
That means parking in designated areas, crossing streets at marked crosswalks and obeying pedestrian signals, and following all posted traffic signs.
