National Day of Prayer event impacts downtown businesses

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - Downtown Bakersfield streets and businesses were impacted by The National Day of Prayer events Thursday.

According to Manna House representatives, they filed for a permit in order to hold a blessing ceremony and concert event Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in honor of the National Day of Prayer near their location on H Street.

However, according to street closure signs posted in downtown Bakersfield, there was no parking between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.

Roads that were closed due to the event were 19th Street between H and Chester; Eye Street between 19th and 20th. Parking was also not available in these areas.

Many businesses expressed frustration, saying they weren't notified of the street closures.

Chef's Choice Noodle Bar chose to close in light of the closures and the Metro Art Galleries also postponed their Mother's Day Shopping occasion. Jin Sushi stayed open but said it missed a food shipment due to the street closures.

When 23ABC talked with city officials in the permit office, finance director, Nelson Smith, said, “This particular application went to the police department, risk management and planning department. The applicant promises to notify the businesses impacted by the street closure. And they provide the city a copy of the notice that they will give to the businesses impacted.”