Atlanta Police Department urges residents, visitors to plan for large crowds in Midtown, downtown this week

The Atlanta Police Department is urging residents and visitors to prepare for expected traffic and crowds this week because of several large sporting events and conventions. Thousands of visitors are expected to visit downtown and Midtown through Friday, July 20. The city will play host to the BB&T Atlanta Open at Atlantic Station, the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishing Market at AmericasMart and the Microsoft convention at the Georgia World Congress Center. The police department recommended using MARTA or carpooling when possible, to park in well-lit, established parking lots and not to leave valuable items in vehicles.