Burning Man Update: The Jack Rabbit Speaks
Volume 16, Issue #28 TRANSPORTATION & TRAFFIC
August 1, 2012 GETTIN' THERE:
+ DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO BLACK ROCK CITY
+ BURNING MAN RIDESHARES - GET 'EM HERE
+ TO FLAME BUS - BUSES TO BRC FROM RENO, SF, LA, SACRAMENTO, AND PORTLAND
+ BIOTOUR - BUS FROM SF TO BLACK ROCK CITY
+ FLYING INTO RENO - THE RENO AIRPORT AND AIR PLAYA INFO
+ THE BLACK ROCK CITY AIRPORT
+ RIDESHARING FROM RENO TO BRC
+ CALIFORNIA I-80 ROAD CLOSURES, DETOURS, DELAYS, ETC.
+ RENO I-80 AND US-395 RECONSTRUCTION
+ GASSING UP IN WADSWORTH & NIXON
+ DRIVING THE SPEED LIMIT IS THE NEW RADICAL SELF-EXPRESSION
+ HOW TO BEHAVE IF YOU GET PULLED OVER BY LAW ENFORCEMENT
+ SOME HELPFUL ADVICE FROM THE NEVADA HIGHWAY PATROL
+ PYRAMID LAKE BURNING MAN ADVISORY
+ ENJOY "AMERICA'S SOLAR HIGHWAY", COURTESY OF BLACK ROCK SOLAR
+ WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE GATE
GETTIN' OUT:
+ EXODUS
+ EXODUS TRAFFIC PULSING
+ DO NOT PASS ... DO NOT GET KILLED
+ DO NOT DRIVE WHEN YOU'RE TIRED! PULL OVER AND REST!
+ HEY THERE! WHERE TO TAKE YOUR TRASH AND RECYCLING!!
+ RENTING A VEHICLE? CLEAN IT THOROUGHLY ... INCLUDING THE ENGINE
CONNECT WITH BURNING MAN:
+ Burning Man on your favorite social networks
ADMINISTERRATA:
+ Want to unsubscribe from the JRS? Really? OK, here's how: http://bit.ly/nxU8Gz
{============================================================}
====================INTRODUCTION========================
{============================================================}
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
If you're still looking for tickets, we've got 1,000 going on sale this Friday at noon PST, but to have access to the sale, you MUST sign up at http://tickets.burningman.com TODAY between 10am and 10pm PST. So get on it! Speaking of tickets, here's the latest ticket news, in the Burning Blog: http://bit.ly/OB7vte.
The Golden Spike -- the spot on which the Man will stand, and the center point of Black Rock City -- was ceremoniously driven into the playa surface on Sunday, marking the beginning of Black Rock City 2012! The city is now being surveyed -- huge chains are being dragged to lay out and demarcate the street grid as we speak. Which means? Here we go!!
OK, this JRS is dedicated to getting TO Burning Man and getting the hell OUT of Burning Man. Stay tuned for another edition for getting AROUND Black Rock City. Transportation and traffic, people. If there's just ONE thing you get out of this JRS, please please let it be this:
BE CAREFUL OUT THERE. DON'T DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE (OF INTOXICANTS... OR THAT OTHER KILLER, SLEEPLESSNESS). DON'T SPEED. DON'T PASS CARS ON ROUTE 447. DONT DRIVE TIRED. ARRIVE ALIVE.
Was that clear enough? Did it seem emphatic? Cool. We want you to arrive in Black Rock City safely, and return to your other home the same way.
OK here's another important one: LEAVE NO TRACE ALWAYS APPLIES - ON YOUR ENTIRE WAY TO AND FROM BLACK ROCK CITY. Do NOT trash our neighboring communities. Deposit your recycling and trash only at authorized dumping stations. For more information on those, see www.burningman.com/trash.
This is a big JRS, we know, but it's important ... so please, print it out and read it ... and make sure your friends read it too.
See you in Black Rock City ... the Man burns in 31 days!
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
{============================================================}
====================GETTIN' THERE========================
{============================================================}
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO BLACK ROCK CITY
Here are driving directions to Black Rock City, coming from all points on the compass:
http://bit.ly/oi5K9F
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
BURNING MAN RIDESHARES - GET 'EM HERE
Save yourself some money, and save your planet some carbon emissions by ridesharing. Burning Man has its own rideshare board here:
http://rideshare.burningman.com
Rideshare data is transferred from this service to the Directory at Playa Info in Black Rock City, so you can follow up on return rides and input new ride offers and needs while in BRC. So if you want to handle rideshare stuff while on playa, it's best to use this system since the only internet access in Black Rock City can be spotty, and you may not be able to connect reliably to source your ride.
There are indeed other rideshare services out there ... here are some that have been in touch with us:
Burning Man Rides www.burningmanrides.com
(not a Burning Man web site)
Ridehack www.ridehack.com/event/241
Zimride http://public.zimride.com/ride/add?event_id=2688
Amovens www.amovens.com
Oh, and some quick reminders when car sharing:
1. Pitching in gas money is cool. Way cool.
2. Tickets are not being sold at the gate this year. Yes, really. Make sure everybody in the car has their ticket, or none will be allowed in the gate. Yes, really.
3. When you post to the board, be honest about who you are, what you're bringing, how much (and whether) you can share driving responsibilities, your temperment, expectations, stops you have planned on the way, and any special needs. When it comes to ridesharing, surprises suck.
4. Make sure you're comfortable with the person with whom you're driving. Bad vibe? Find another ride. Really.
5. Have fun ... you just might make a friend.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
TO FLAME BUS - BUSES TO BRC FROM RENO, SF, LA, SACRAMENTO, AND PORTLAND
Do you live in or near LA, SF, Sacramento, or Portland? Are you without a car or ride, and not sure how you're going to get to Burning Man? Flying into Reno from some corner of the globe? Don't want to spend a lot of money on a rental car? Wanting to help reduce cars to the event ... or just do not want to drive? Are you still unsure how you're going to get home from the playa?
To Flame Bus is part of a national "social mobility network" that is providing bus transportation to Black Rock City from the Reno Airport, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento. Return trips from BRC to these cities are also offered following Burning Man. Reno Airport-to-BRC buses will be making a pit-stop for travelers to get supplies. Seats are available to reserve at very reasonable prices, while rates will increase incrementally as Burning Man approaches.
NOTE: Each bus trip will need to achieve a certain number of passengers in order to confirm, so keep that in mind in your options, ..while you may want to tell your friends about To Flame Bus too! More people means more buses and therefore seats available, --and less cars on the road. You can find out further information, ask questions, check out the many schedule possibilities, and reserve a seat by going to their website at:
www.brc.toflame.com
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
BIOTOUR - BUS FROM SF TO BLACK ROCK CITY
BioTour returns again this year with its veggie oil-fueled bus and solar-generated beats for a trip from San Francisco to Black Rock City. Seats are still available for the trip which departs SF on Saturday, August 25, at 11PM. BioTour also has seats available for a return trip from BRC to SF on Monday, September 3, after Burning Man. For further info, check out their website here:
http://www.biotour.org/content/events/2012_Burning_Man_Shuttle/BurningManShuttles2012.html
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
FLYING INTO RENO - THE RENO AIRPORT AND AIR PLAYA INFO
Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest major airport to Black Rock City. Air Playa Info at the airport will be staffed by helpful volunteers with tons of information on local resources and transportation options. Go here for all the information on the Reno Airport:
http://bit.ly/2LojV
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
THE BLACK ROCK CITY AIRPORT
Want to fly your own private plane into Burning Man? We got you covered. In fact, we built an airport on the playa just. for. you. It has the official FAA designation "88-NV". All the info about flying into, camping at, and departing from the Black Rock City Regional Airport can be found on our airport web pages:
http://tinyurl.com/5cfco2
Oh, and the Rabbit wants a spin in your plane. Yes, really. And a pony.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
ADVANTAGE FLIGHT - AVOID THE ROADS, THEY'LL FLY YA TO THE PLAYA FAST!
Flying into and out of Burning Man has always been one way to save travel time, avoid the lines at Gate or during Exodus, and arrive like a rock star. With the record number of participants this year, it's also a great way to help keep cars off the road. Advantage Flight, a Burner-owned and -operated charter air service with over 500 playa flights logged since 2005, is working with several other air-charter operators with the goal of reducing at least 800 cars from this year's Burn!
Advantage now offers many FAST non-stop flights daily between the BRC Airport and Reno (35 minutes), the Bay Area and Northern California (90 minutes), LA and SoCal (2.5 hours), Portland (2 hours), Seattle (2.75 hours), and Utah (2 hours). Special per-seat pricing from the Bay Area now also available for the first time ó no need to charter a whole aircraft to get to the playa! In addition to passengers, Advantage can fly in time-critical materials for build crews, such as baggage, fresh food, and other supplies. Check out all the details at: www.advantageflight.com/bman
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
RIDESHARING FROM RENO TO BLACK ROCK CITY
If you are unable to arrange for means of transportation from Reno to BRC beforehand, you also have two well-used Rideshare possibilities to the playa (which is 2.5 hours away).
The first rideshare option to the playa is from the Reno Airport, where you may be able to negotiate a ride from fellow Burners who rent a car -- check in at Air Playa Info to see about the possibilities. Chances are you might be able to get some of your supplies on the ride too, as most everyone flying in has to get supplies, due to flight baggage restrictions -- be sure and ask.
Your second rideshare option is to go to the busiest pit-stop in the region for Burners shopping their way through, which is 10 minutes from the airport, and is right next to Interstate 80. And you can get supplies there. If you're flying in, check in at Air Playa Info to see if there may be other Burners who may be willing to give you a ride there (if not to the playa), or to see if anyone may be willing to carpool a taxi with you to this rideshare location:
Save Mart Supermarket
525 Keystone Ave - 775-786-2150
Open 24/7.
Finally, some important things to keep in mind about ridesharing with fellow Burners:
Riders:
- Offering to chip in for gas is helpful if you can.
- Everyone in the vehicle must be wearing a seatbelt -- it's the law.
- Be sure to LEAVE NO TRACE at the rideshare locations.
Drivers:
- Make sure EVERYBODY in the vehicle has their Burning Man ticket, or has one at Will Call. If riders aren't holding a ticket or a will call receipt, we ask you to PLEASE not bring them to BRC.
Finally, and most importantly: Riders and Drivers, BE COMFORTABLE before agreeing to ride with your fellow would-be travelers.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
CALIFORNIA I-80 ROAD CLOSURES, DETOURS, DELAYS, ETC.
In April 2009, the California Department of Transportation launched a major construction effort on Interstate 80, which includes eight separate projects that will provide various road improvements over a nearly 80-mile stretch of the highway from Colfax, California to the Nevada State line. Project construction will continue into 2012. Make sure you anticipate any delays or detours that might affect you and impact your travel plans. For full information, visit any or all of these sites:
http://www.getacross80.com/
http://caltrans.com
http://www.dot.ca.gov/
http://baybridgeinfo.org/
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
RENO I-80 AND US-395 RECONSTRUCTION
Travelers on Highway I-80 through Reno and Sparks will experience reduced speed limits and some narrowing of roads due to highway reconstruction. All highway exits will be open during Burning Man. Please drive cautiously and obey the speed limit.
Southbound travelers on US-395 through Reno should plan for the closure of the Neil Road exit (# 64), so use alternate exit (#63) at South Virginia. The on-ramp at Neil Road is also closed for northbound US-395 travelers, so use the on-ramp at South Virginia Street near South McCarran Blvd. People looking to access Whole Foods Market should take note of these closures.
For further Reno-Sparks highway information, visit here:
http://www.keeprenosparksmoving.com/
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
GASSING UP IN WADSWORTH & NIXON
We had a meeting with the Washoe County Sheriffs recently. One of their biggest concerns is that when people are arriving and stop for gas at Bruno's in Gerlach, the traffic backs up past the railroad tracks, and then people trying to get around the backup move into the oncoming traffic lane. And this is bad.
So here's what we'd like you to do if you're coming up Hwy 447 from I80:
1. Get final gas in Fernley, Wadsworth, or Nixon!
2. If Bruno's is full and starting to back up, don't stop on the highway and block the road. If people ARE stopped, don't do risky things like moving into the oncoming traffic lane or stop on the railroad tracks.
The only good solution is for people to gas up in Fernley, Wadsworth, or Nixon. So please, do that.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
DRIVING THE SPEED LIMIT IS THE NEW RADICAL SELF-EXPRESSION
During Burning Man, there are plenty of law enforcement officers patrolling the routes to the Black Rock Desert, just WAITING for you to speed, so they can write you a nice fat citation. Seriously, we hear this EVERY year: "Wow, you were right, I was barely speeding and I got a ticket." Right, so don't speed. Like even 3 MPH over. You'll get nailed, we promise. It's just not worth it! And just the right thing to do, caring for the safety of the people, children and pets living in the small towns along the way. Thanks!
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
HOW TO BEHAVE IF YOU GET PULLED OVER BY LAW ENFORCEMENT
Here's an informative video that explains how to behave if you're pulled over by a law enforcement officer en route to the playa (or anywhere else, for that matter). It's a great explanation of your Constitutional rights, and how to protect them:
http://bit.ly/64ixK
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
SOME HELPFUL ADVICE FROM THE NEVADA HIGHWAY PATROL
Every year the NHP helps hundreds of Burners who get stranded or otherwise experience problems on the road to and from the event. At a recent meeting they let us know some super helpful tips to avoid the most common problems that Burners experience while on the road:
Balding...
...The NHP reports that bald tires are a significant factor in accidents and break downs so be sure to check your tires before you leave for the event and replace those old tires if you need to.
Too tired to drive...
...The NHP reports that of the accidents that relate to Burning Man traffic, the number one reported cause of these accidents was FATIGUE. Be sure to be well rested and sober (duh), with a copilot to help to keep you company while you drive. Behind the wheel is no place for a playa hangover.
Driving on empty..
Coming to Black Rock City on Interstate 80? Get fuel in Reno, Wadsworth, Nixon, or Fernley. Coming from the Pacific Northwest? Gas up in Cedarville. Otherwise you risk being backed up with traffic for miles waiting for gas in Gerlach or Empire, and simply running out of gas. Empire and Gerlach CANNOT handle the kind of traffic created by fueling lines, which causes traffic hazards. And it will only be worse on the way OUT of Burning Man. Gas up fully at the recommended filling cities beforehand. And this goes for fuel for RV generators as well. One more thing--figure out what kind of fuel your generator uses BEFOREHAND. Most generators do NOT run on gasoline.
No camping ...
Camping is prohibited in Gerlach. Please respect the local citizens.
Traveling into Wadsworth after Burning Man...
One of the Exodus Trash and Recycling Network partners, Trash Pros, is located a mile north of Wadsworth on 447, just before you enter the town. Look out for the big signs. Expect a reduced speed limit, traffic-safety workers, and slow traffic here during Exodus.
Going for broke...
...If your vehicle breaks down please carefully pull off the road to allow traffic to continue past you safely. NHP may push your vehicle off the road if needed but if you can safely coast or push your vehicle onto a gravel shoulder, please do so.
Soft shoulders...
...State Route 447 and the other rural highways have *very* soft shoulders and the chance of getting stuck is much higher than you expect, especially in the soft sands around Pyramid lake. Only pull over if you absolutely have to, and if at all possible only on fully developed gravel shoulders. It's also easy to roll a vehicle if you hit these soft shoulders at high speeds. Be CAREFUL.
Secure your load!...
...Be sure loads on your roof rack or trailers are ABSOLUTELY secured to your vehicle. **This especially applies at the end of the event on the way home** when you may be tired and less careful about how you pack and secure your belongings and trash. Taking a couple of extra minutes to fully secure your load for the sail home is a lot easier and safer for you and for other travelers. Finally, Leaving No Trace both on AND off the playa is absolutely critical to the event's future. So, make triple sure EVERYTHING is secure!
Hurry up and wait...
...the wait for tow trucks can be very long (think hours and hours). Sitting on the side of the road is a major bummer so please be careful.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
PYRAMID LAKE BURNING MAN TRAVEL ADVISORY
The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe writes to say:
"The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe would like to invite all Burning Man travelers to its native and sovereign lands. The Tribe would also like to advise all travelers to SLOW DOWN AND KEEP YOUR DISTANCE while traveling through the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation. All of the State Routes on the reservation are two lane roads and the Tribe would like motorists to turn on their headlights during the day and night, and be aware of the dangers associated with high speeds on two lane highways.
Due to the number vehicles traveling to and from the Burning Man Festival, motorists are advised to be extra cautious while traveling on any of the State Routes that run through the reservation. The entire Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation is an open range area for livestock; motorists are to be cautious of livestock that may be on the highways. While passing though the Tribal communities of Wadsworth and Nixon, the Tribe requests that motorists be cautious of children and courteous to Tribal Members that may attempt to cross the highway, or that are accessing their homes, businesses, or Tribal Services. For more important Burning Man travel information please visit http://www.pyramidlake.us.
Emergency Contact Numbers
All Emergencies: 911
Nevada Highway Patrol: *NHP (*647)
Washoe County Dispatch: 775-574-0444
Pyramid Lake Ranger Station: 775-476-1155
PYRAMID LAKE STORES AND OTHER RESOURCES
The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe will have both of its convenience stores -- the I-80 Smokeshop (Wadsworth) and the Nixon Store (Nixon) -- open for extended hours during peak travel times, and fully stocked for the convenience of travelers to Burning Man.
The I-80 Smokeshop located off exit #43 in Wadsworth offers gas, ice, food, alcohol, ATM, Native Crafts, pay phone, cheap cigarettes, and many other supplies needed for the Burning Man event. For more information about the I-80 Smokeshop please visit http://www.plpt.nsn.us/tstores/i80.htm.
The Nixon Store is located at the intersection of State Route 447 and State Route 446 in Nixon offers gas, ice, food, ATM, pay phone, and many other supplies needed for the Burning Man event. For more information about the Nixon Store please visit http://www.plpt.nsn.us/tstores/nixonstore.htm.
There are also lake tours, RV Parks and campgrounds, a restaurant and saloon, trash, recycling, and greywater services, auto/tow service, and a car-wash to be found on the reservation. Check out all the information here:
Wadsworth - http://bit.ly/qYFca6
Nixon and Pyramid Lake - http://bit.ly/qnn6Um
VENDORS
Throughout the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation, motorists may find several vendors along the sides of the highway. The Tribe encourages all visitors to support Tribal Member vendors and other businesses located on the reservation. Motorists are advised to use caution and to not be distracted by the vendors while driving on the highways. These vendors may be selling food or supplies to travelers en route to the Burning Man event on the reservation. The Tribe reminds travelers that all the vendors are required to meet all Federal Health Code standards and other Tribal regulations.
TRASH AND RECYCLING RESOURCES
Every year the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe reports large amounts of garbage littering their roadways during Exodus. And every year Burning Man's Playa Restoration team sends crews to pick this trash up. This year:
Plan on taking your recycling and trash to the Trash Pros center in Wadsworth, one of the 24-hour locations in the Exodus Trash and Recycling Network. Go here for further info:
http://bit.ly/LViq00
You will also find trash service available at The Nixon Store in Nixon and the I-80 Smokeshop in Wadworth. Both stores will be open 24 hours during Exodus.
Finally, you will also see roadside trash services in Wadsworth and Nixon during Exodus. It's another great way to support the Tribe -- our neighbors.
Remember: Leave No Trace On and Off the Playa!
FIREWORKS
This year the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe is selling Fireworks that you may shoot ONLY on the reservation. They are illegal everywhere else, including in Black Rock City. Please be advised, if you purchase fireworks on the reservation, you must shoot them on the reservation, and only in very specific locations. You must be over 18 and shooting hours are between dusk and midnight.
PYRAMID LAKE CAMPING AND DAY-USE
Pyramid Lake is a beautiful ancient lake at the heart of the Paiute Tribe Reservation, with plenty of day-use and camping opportunities before or after a week on the hot dusty playa. All day-use and camping requires Tribal permits Proceeds from permits help support the Tribal Government, and water quality and environmental programs that protect the unique ecosystem of Pyramid Lake year round. The Tribe advises all travelers to know that the north and east side of the lake, Anaho Island National Wildlife Refuge, The Pyramid, and The Needles are off-limits to everyone but tribe members. The Tribe also advises that souvenir and artifact hunting are not permitted. To purchase camping, day-use, and other permits online, or for a list of permit locations and additional information about Pyramid Lake, please visit www.pyramidlake.us.
PYRAMID LAKE ART SHOW
The Paiute Tribe invites all Burning Man participants to stop and experience the unique art and culture on display at the Pyramid Lake Arts and Crafts Show, Saturday and Sunday, August 25-26, at the Pyramid Lake Museum and Visitors Center (709 State Street in Nixon, across from The Nixon Store). Native American artists will be displaying and selling their artwork & crafts. The traveler will also find an invaluable experience in checking out the Museum itself with breathtaking architecture and a remarkable display of the history and culture of the Tribe, lake, and land. If you are camping at Pyramid Lake or otherwise have the time, don't miss out on this special arts show at the Museum that will leave you with an appreciation for the unique arts and culture of Pyramid Lake. For more information about the Pyramid lake Museum and Visitors Center, please visit http://www.pyramidlake.us/pyramid-lake-visitor-center.html.
WADSWORTH CAR WASH
The Sacred Visions Powwow Committee will be sponsoring a carwash during Exodus for travelers next to the Natchez Elementary School, just as you enter Wadsworth on State Route 447. The wash will be available for vehicles of all sizes during daylight hours from September 1-4. All funds raised will go to support the 5th Annual Sacred Visions Powwow in Wadsworth in July of 2013. For more information about the Sacred Visions Powwow, please visit www.sacredvisionspowwow.com.
THE PYRAMID LAKE PAIUTE TRIBE WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL BURNING MAN TRAVELERS TO HAVE A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE TRIP."
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
ENJOY "AMERICA'S SOLAR HIGHWAY", COURTESY OF BLACK ROCK SOLAR
Since its inception, Black Rock Solar (www.blackrocksolar.org) has been busy spreading free solar power arrays throughout northern Nevada. In fact, they've been so good at it that Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons declared Highway 447 "America's Solar Highway".
A total of ten solar arrays have been built under the Solar Generations program along the 75 mile length of State Highway 447 between Fernley and Gerlach, totaling 451 kilowatts for an average of six kilowatts of energy produced per mile, believed to be the largest amount of distributed solar power per mile of any highway in the country.
So as you're cruising up Route 447, keep an eye out ... you'll see 'em.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
GETTING INTO BRC: THE GATE
With an expected population of 60,000, we are expecting our busiest year yet at the Gate. Wait times during the first 24-36 hours after opening could be 5 or more hours (last year it peaked at 9). Do your part to be prepared and know the process, and you will help make it easier for everyone.
In 2012 the eight-day Special Recreation Permit is from 6pm on Sunday, August 26th to 6pm on Monday, September 3rd. The Gate will officially open at 6pm this year.
The Gate Crew works VERY hard in sometimes NIGHTMARISH conditions throughout the entire event, as they meticulously process EVERY SINGLE PARTICIPANT who comes into Black Rock City. The Gate has its own unique culture: part theater, a lot of pride, and deep-seated professional integrity ... and beneath every tough exterior beats the soft heart of a very good person. Here are some tips on what to expect at the Gate when arriving at Black Rock City and how to make the process go as smoothly as possible for you.
For a full list of frequently asked questions about the Gate and Exodus, go here: http://www.burningman.com/preparation/event_survival/gate_faq.html
What you need to know about arriving at Burning Man:
1. On your way to Burning Man, please drive safely and be considerate while passing through local towns. Speeding, parking on highway shoulders, and unsafe driving are safety hazards and could threaten the future of the event. We are guests in their community, so be extra courteous and obey the law.
2. Plan your arrival so that you show up at the Gate after opening. We cannot allow people who show up early to wait in town (see #1 above). When the Gate opens, we give will give priority to those who show up on time. This means that if you show up early and we have to stage you somewhere, you will get in later than if you showed up on time.
3. During peak traffic periods we will be controlling traffic with highway flaggers along Hwy 447 before the Gerlach gas station. Past experience has shown that long lines at the gas station have caused unsafe conditions. Watch for signs and flaggers on the road; they are fellow Burning Man volunteers helping to make your arrival safer!
4. As you approach the Burning Man entrance from the highway, tune your radio to 95.1 FM for the Gate Advisory Radio Station! We will be broadcasting up to date info about the entry process.
5. Drive no more than 5-10mph on Gate Road. We have volunteers working out there and the dust can make it hard for you to see them. Speeding also causes ruts in the road.
6. Stay in your vehicle. If you need to go to will call, your entire vehicle should go with you. Don’t risk losing your friends (yes, it happens).
7. About 1/4 mile before you reach the Gate you will come to a set of small kiosks we call the ‘Apex.’ During busy times there will be Gate staff here to direct you. There is an empty zone just after the "Apex" that will allow vehicles in any lane to turn into the Will Call lot.
8. Upon reaching the Gate your tickets will be scanned and torn, and your car searched. Plan ahead for the search and know what items are prohibited. http://bit.ly/f8k6v
9. Be patient. Chances are high that many other Burners will decide to show up when you do, and with a single two lane rural highway leading to a single entry point, expect to wait. If the weather gets bad we may have to close the Gate.
10. Carpool! Fewer vehicles = less traffic = shorter wait times = better for the environment. Winning!
11. If you don’t have a ticket, do not show up at the event. There is a closure order issued by the BLM and you must have a valid ticket to be inside of it. Tickets will NOT be sold at the gate. If you are at the Gate without a ticket, you will be told to leave or risk citation from the BLM.
12. Be well informed: read up to date info on the Burning Man website and in the JRS. Know what items are prohibited, know what you need for early arrivals, and if you are a camp or project expecting deliveries, know about that process far in advance.
13. Educate your fellow Burners by sharing this information with your campmates and friends. During your entry and exit, help fellow Burners through the process by respectfully teaching them the *right* way to do it.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
{============================================================}
====================GETTIN' OUT========================
{============================================================}
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
EXODUS
As important as figuring out how you are getting to Burning Man is how you are planning to leave, and when. Exodus gets more interesting every year as the population of Black Rock City grows, and we expect this to be the busiest year yet. Last year's wait times peaked at about 6-9 hours just to get to the highway. Plan for another 3 hours or more from the start of the highway to Reno. These times could increase if there are accidents or other traffic issues, including too many people trying to leave BRC all at once, as we saw in 2011. It's important that you know what to expect and plan accordingly. To state it simply, we cannot get vehicles off of the playa any *faster* than we already are.
"When is it best to leave?" AVOID PEAK TRAVEL TIMES ON SUNDAY AND MONDAY! Generally any night from 2am to dawn, Monday night after dark, or yes, Saturday before the Man burns are the best times to leave. This does not mean there will not be a line, you should always plan and be prepared to wait.
For a full list of frequently asked questions about Exodus, go here: http://www.burningman.com/preparation/event_survival/gate_faq.html
Above all, keep that playa vibe with you! No sense getting road rage, cutting in front of your fellow community members, or trying to dangerously pass cars on the highway in order to save a few minutes. Take your time, have fun, and remember, Leave no Trace and the community spirit do not stop once you leave Black Rock City.
Tips for making your Exodus experience as smooth as it can be:
1. How do you pick the best time to leave? Listen to the community. If everyone you talk to says they are staying to watch the Temple burn on Sunday night, then Monday is going to have very long wait times. If there is a major storm predicted for the weekend (as was the case in 2010), then a bunch of people will probably leave on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
2. If you are looking for a shorter wait time, your best bet is to leave on days other than Sunday and Monday. If you are part of a theme camp or art project, schedule your tear down so that your crew leaves after Monday.
3. Upon leaving your camp, head straight to L Street at the back of the city. This is the most direct route to Gate Road and helps to prevent the city center from getting too clogged up. NEW FOR 2012! We will be dividing L Street during Exodus so that there are dedicated lanes for each of the 2:00-4:00, 4:00-6:00, 6:00-8:00 and 10:00-8:00 quadrants. The purpose of this division is to reduce the number of merges and thus allow for more fairness across the city in getting to Gate Road.
4. Use all available lanes on Gate Road until you hit the back-up. If you see that there are 8 lanes (which there are), but see only 6 lines of cars and 2 lanes completely open, USE THEM. All lanes on Gate Road during Exodus are outbound lanes, always, always, always.
5. Once you are in the 8-lane-wide back-up, if the vehicle in front of you is stopped, and traffic in front of it has moved on in a Pulse, go around the stopped vehicle. Do not change lanes! Do not merge into the lane next to you. Go around the stopped vehicle, and stay in your same lane. (All Gate Road lanes are 20 feet wide for this reason.)
6. If a lane is open next to you because a vehicle is stopped or broken down, please ignore your inclination and do not fill into it unless an Exodus staff member directs you to. That open space is for the people behind the stopped vehicle! If you merge into an open lane in the back-up, you are making the system unfair.
7. Ultimately we must rely on the community to police itself and ensure that their fellow participants are respecting the process. If you see people cheating the system, say something! There is no way for us to monitor all of Gate Road for lane changing...nor do we want to be the traffic police. YOU can help make it fair by informing people about the process and making sure they follow it.
8. Any vehicles found to be outside the perimeter of BRC or Gate Road are in violation of the Event Closure Area. Closure Area violations are ticketed by the BLM. They really are out there watching and you will be ticketed. Then you will be returned to the back of the Exodus line. Sounds fun, right?
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
EXODUS TRAFFIC PULSING
We will implement Pulsing again this year on Sunday and Monday, generally from 10am until 2am (or until the need dissipates). Pulsing is a system of moving vehicles at regular intervals toward the highway on Gate Road to avoid the long slow creep that challenges the sanity of even the most patient among us. With Pulsing, vehicles stop and turn off their engines. Then, every hour, vehicles are “pulsed” a mile forward all at once.
Pulsing does NOT get you out of the city more quickly, it just lets you take a break from driving. During Pulsing, expect to be stopped along Gate Road for periods of time. Listen to BMIR 94.5FM or the Gate Advisory Radio Station 91.5FM for Exodus and Pulsing info.
Make the most out of your Exodus experience! Pulsing is the perfect time to create ONE HOUR NEIGHBORHOODS (see a participant’s explanation of this idea here: http://apictureofit.com/2011/09/burning-man-2011-exodus/.) and ensure your fellow Burners have properly secured their loads.
Want more info on how Pulsing works? Check it out here:
http://gate.burningman.com/Pulsing_Diagram.jpg
Happy Leaving.
Your Exodus Team
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
DO NOT PASS ... DO NOT GET KILLED
We were going say this ourselves, but Leslie, who wrote in asking us to remind participants about this important issue, is pretty spot on, and she has particular cred in this department, as she notes: "I was struck head-on by a person passing and my car was left three feet shorter. I suffered unbelieveable pain, spent time in a wheelchair and in physical rehabilitation as the result of his one bad choice to pass. Much of what was good in my life has been taken from me as a result."
So ... please take a moment to read and consider her invaluable advice ... since we prefer our Burners alive, thank you. She writes:
"Please, while driving to and from the event do not pass AT ALL between the freeway and the event. Passing simply isn't safe and can lead to fatal head-on collisions. Full-size 18 wheelers regularly use these roads and go the opposite directions from the main traffic at high speeds; they are not watching out for you at all.
You simply cannot count on other drivers in a long line of cars bumper to bumper leaving Burning Man to hang back and let you back into the line when an oncoming vehicle is coming at you head-on at 55-85 mph. The delay for just not passing and patiently following the car in front of you may be only a few additional minutes. The cost of passing may be your life.
Besides, when everyone is in a line to leave Burning Man it is just selfish and pointless to pass an entire line of cars as if they didn't want to go faster. We all have to put up with slowly leaving the playa.
One year while leaving Burning Man I saw a catastrophic accident as the result of someone passing. I've also seen numerous near misses that would have resulted in severe head-on collisions, some with full size 18 wheelers going over 40 mph, that would have killed everyone in the car.
Many people who go to Burning Man just do not understand or appreciate the risk."
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
DO NOT DRIVE WHEN YOU'RE TIRED! PULL OVER AND REST!
Here's a little cautionary tale about what can happen when you drive to or from Black Rock City when you're overly tired, titled "A Little More Sleep to Avoid the Big Sleep": http://bit.ly/OHrN2O
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/***<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
HEY THERE! WHERE TO TAKE YOUR TRASH AND RECYCLING!!
Hey! Did you know that Leaving No Trace is absolutely critical to the survival of Black Rock City both on AND off the playa? Yep, it is. Really critical. Errant trash on the sides of the roads and other littering seriously impacts the time, money, resources, and the continuing support of our neighbors -- which are all necessary for the survival of the event. Littering is not only illegal and cause for prosecution -- it makes Burning Man, and all of us, look really REALLY careless and irresponsible. And if we want Burning Man to continue, we can't have any of that. Period.
Managing your trash and recycling successfully isn't hard! It's actually really easy with a little bit of preparation. Make it part of your Survival list. Here are a few quick final pointers to help insure your clean Exodus home, our future return to the Black Rock Desert, and our track record as the largest Leave No Trace event on the planet:
After you've MOOP-ed your camp one last time, and hugged your neighbors and kissed the playa goodbye, stop and make triply sure that your load is FULLY SECURED TO YOUR VEHICLE. You absolutely cannot have any bags or bits flying off as you're sailing and whistling along the highways headed home. And check again during Exodus Pulsing Operations -- and remember to check neighboring cars too!
Second, there are a PLENITUDE of 24-hour trash and recycling disposal options in all directions from BRC during Exodus. These fully-equipped centers in Wadsworth, Cedarville, Reno, and Sparks have been providing this service for Burners for years and are the best way to take that load off on your way home. Check out all the info on the Exodus Trash and Recycling (EXTRA) network of locations here:
http://bit.ly/LViq00
You will also find other roadside trash vendors during Exodus in Gerlach, Nixon, and Wadsworth, and some of them will also be open 24 hours. They'll have signs up so you can't miss them. Not only will they help take a load off, supporting them also supports local economies.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
RENTING A VEHICLE? CLEAN IT THOROUGHLY ... INCLUDING THE ENGINE
If you're renting a car or RV, you want to clean the living hell out of it, INCLUDING the engine ... you might get dinged for an extra fee if you don't. To clean the engine, you can use one of those air blower hose things at a gas station. And, returning rental cars in bad shape reflects badly on our community and risks our people's future ability to rent cars.
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
{============================================================}
==================CONNECT WITH BURNING MAN====================
{============================================================}
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
The Burning Man Regional Network - connect with Burners in your hometown:
http://regionals.burningman.com
Visit our own Lyceum and engage with published authors, bloggers and thinkers in and around the Burning Man community as they observe and comment on our culture and like-minded cultures around the world:
http://blog.burningman.com
The Official Burning Man Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/burningman
Official Burning Man Twitter Account - All Things Burning Man:
http://www.twitter.com/burningman
Black Rock City Twitter Account - All Things BRC:
http://www.twitter.com/blackrockcity
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
{============================================================}
================ADMINISTERRATA FOR THE JRS==================
{============================================================}
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
POST REQUESTS
Email your post requests to jackrabbitspeaks@burningman.com with the words "POST REQUEST" in your subject line.
MORE INFORMATION
For questions: questions@burningman.com
JRS archive: http://www.burningman.com/blackrockcity_yearround/jrs/
SUBSCRIBE & UNSUBSCRIBE
To subscribe, email: bman-announce-subscribe@burningman.com
To unsubscribe, email: bman-announce-unsubscribe@burningman.com
To subscribe or unsubscribe on the web, visit https://lists.burningman.com/mailman/listinfo/bman-announce
If you are having trouble unsubscribing, troubleshoot at http://bit.ly/nxU8Gz
**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**<>/**
Soundtrack for this JRS: Steve Earle & The Del McCoury Band, Stevie Wonder, The Strokes
_______________________________________________
Jackrabbit Speaks Email List
https://lists.burningman.com/mailman/listinfo/bman-announce |
