First Lady visit traffic advisory

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - First Lady Michelle Obama will be in Springfield on Friday afternoon to headline a $2,500 per person fundraiser for her husband's re-election campaign.

Because of tight security in the area, drivers are being urged to stay away from the Basketball Hall of Fame area on West Columbus Avenue on Friday afternoon from 1:30-3 p.m.

Sgt. John Delaney of the Springfield Police Department told 22News said while they won't be shutting down roads in that area for the whole time, but there will be periods where roads will be shut off during the First Lady's arrival and departure.

Since the First Lady's appearance at the Basketball Hall of Fame is a closed, private event, he said people shouldn't gather in that area trying to get a look at her.

After her appearance in Springfield, Mrs. Obama will attend an event at Governor Deval Patrick's home in Richmond, and will be at a fundraising concert in Pittsfield, at the Colonial Theater with singer James Taylor.