An estimated 50,000 people are expected to visit Charleston for the return of the Sternwheel Regatta this summer. To accommodate visitors over the five-day event, city officials have announced options for transportation and parking.

The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority will provide free shuttle services to help access Regatta events and activities, according to a news release from the city of Charleston. A map of public and private parking locations has been released to give attendees time for planning logistics.

Bus routes will run in 30 minute intervals to allow visitors to access City Center Station from the Patrick Street Big Lots and Laidley Field, according to KRT officials.

City officials have released a map of public and private parking options throughout the city, some of which may require a fee. Handicapped parking areas will be available on a first-come-first-served basis. Parking meters on city streets will be enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“There is going to be so much to see and do during the upcoming Charleston Sternwheel Regatta,” Mayor Amy Goodwin stated in a news release. “We want to make sure folks know how to get to and from Regatta activities and events – whether that’s finding a place to park or knowing where to hop on the KRT.”

The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta makes its comeback after a 12-year hiatus from Thursday, June 30 to Monday, July 4. Free, kid-friendly activities are planned to accommodate families.

A full schedule of events is available for review online. Updates on the Regatta will be announced on the event Facebook page.