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The Eclipse is One Week Away

Posted Monday, April 1, 2024
— Updates
Solar Eclipse Graphic

Parts of Vermont will experience a once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. To help plan and enjoy the eclipse safely, here are some tips and resources for those living in and traveling through Essex Junction and other cities and towns in the path of totality.

Eclipse Day - April 8, 2024

The eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8. It will start at 2:14 p.m. and end at 4:37 p.m., with totality lasting from 3:26 p.m. to 3:29 p.m.

The City Offices at 2 Lincoln Street and Brownell Library will close at noon on April 8. EJRP will be closed the entire day.

Eclipse Glasses

While supplies last, eclipse glasses are available at the Brownell Library. 

Viewing Opportunities in the City

The City of Essex Junction is not hosting any official eclipse events and encourages family and small gatherings at home to enjoy the event.

Business Closure in the City 

Champlain Valley Expo will be closed to vehicle traffic on Monday, April 8, 2024, until 5 p.m. While pedestrian traffic will not be turned away, it is not encouraged as there will be no services available, such as restrooms, emergency medical staff, food service, etc.

Casella will be closed on Monday, April 8, 2024, in Chittenden County because of the expected high traffic volume due to the eclipse. If your regular service date is April 8, please note that they will be moving your service date up one day to Sunday, April 7. The All Cycle Transfer Station will also be closed on April 8 and open on April 7. They will return to regular business operations on April 9.

Traffic

The State is expecting a large influx of people into the path of totality. There will be traffic, so please be patient with increased traffic due to the eclipse. The State is also asking people visiting the path of totality to arrive early and leave late to avoid increasing traffic in the hours immediately before and after the eclipse.

Tips from the Essex Police Department

  • Do not look directly at the sun without proper viewing equipment. Do NOT look at the sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer — the concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury.
  • Make sure the place you are planning to watch the eclipse is safe, open, accessible, and welcoming visitors. Plan to arrive ahead of time and bring warm layers of clothing.
  • Listen to officials and follow posted regulations. Sign up for alerts and follow local social media messaging #VTEclipse. Check local ordinances, fire danger reports, trail access information, and other guidelines. Natural surface trails will be closed because of muddy and icy conditions.
  • Expect heavy traffic in the area leading up to the event. Plan extra time for your travels.
  • Stock up on food, gas, and cash (if needed) about one week prior to the event.
  • Prevent thefts, lock your vehicles, and remove the valuables from inside your vehicle.
  • If emergency services are needed, please dial 911. If you need to report suspicious activity to the police, please dial 802-878-8331.

Additional Resources

When planning to view the 2024 Eclipse, it is important to stay up to date on changes, news, and emergency information.