Obama’s Tampa Rally: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re making your way to Ybor City’s Centennial Park to hear President Barack Obama speak Oct. 25 or you just need to drive through the area, there are some things you need to know.

Getting into the 1800 E. 8th Ave. park is going to require not only a ticket, but also a pass through security screening, said Lacey Rose, a spokeswoman for the Obama campaign.

“It’s kind of like airport security,” she said.

With that in mind, she cautioned those who plan on going should leave things like umbrellas, backpacks, large bags and drinks at home.

“We will be handing out water outside to the people in the lines and we’ll have water inside, as well,” Rose said. “They do search everything you do bring in.”

Here’s what else you need to know:

The Rally Schedule

• 7 a.m. Doors open for people with tickets
• 9 a.m. This is the estimated time for Obama to make an appearance

Traffic Concerns

Law enforcement is not releasing a list of what roads will be closed, but Detective Larry McKinnon of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office did offer some advice for those traveling through Ybor City or South Tampa on Thursday morning.

“Like always, you can expect traffic delays and road closures,” McKinnon said.

Bay area residents who need to be downtown or in Ybor at certain times Thursday morning should leave early.

How to Get Tickets

Free tickets for the Tampa rally are still available at some Obama For America Florida offices. Here is the list of locations that still had tickets as of 10 a.m. Oct. 24:

Ybor City Office

1702 N. 14th St.

Riverview Office

11215 Bloomingdale Ave.

Temple Terrace Office

5246 E. Fowler, Suite 4

Egypt Lake Office

3105 W. Waters Ave, Suite 315

South Tampa Office

3825 Henderson Blvd.