Port Canaveral is initiating a special parking plan in anticipation of the large crowds expected for the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch, scheduled for Wednesday evening.

Port Canaveral and its Jetty Park area are popular launch viewing sites.

In an announcement, the port said parking for the launch "will be limited, and traffic in and around the port will be controlled to ensure public safety, ease traffic congestion, and promote a safe arrival and departure from the port. Launch watchers should decide in advance where to park their car, and follow signs to their desired lot at Port Canaveral."

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Here are 10 things people should know, if they're planning to come to Port Canaveral on launch day:

• Parking lot cost: Parking in Port Canaveral lots will cost $15. Only cash will be accepted — no credit cards.

• When to get there: Port Canaveral officials are encouraging people to delay arriving at the port until after 2 p.m., although they concede many people will arrive much earlier to secure a prime viewing spot for the launch. The launch window runs from 6:36 to 8:35 p.m.

• Check the maps: Visitors should review the port’s parking and traffic flow plan posted on the port's website (www.portcanaveral.com), and choose the parking lot that offers the most efficient exit to the return trip roadway.

• Watch the signs: Electronic and fixed signs on State Roads 528 and A1A, and on roadways and intersections on port will direct motorists arriving at the port to park in designated parking areas. Brevard County Sheriff’s Office deputies, parking lot attendants and port staff will be at key traffic intersections around the port to assist motorists.

• Jetty Park rules: Regular per-vehicle admission will apply at Jetty Park. The lot will close when maximum number of vehicles has been reached. Departing motorists will be directed onto North Atlantic Boulevard southbound (or George King Boulevard, depending on traffic conditions).

• Cove parking rules: There will be free parking for restaurant patrons only until the lot is filled.

• Restricted parking areas: Exploration Tower and its parking lot closed for a private event. The boat ramp area is exclusively for boats and trailers using the boat ramp.

• No parking areas: No parking will be allowed on State Road 401 and on the State Road 528 median.

•Accessible parking: Accessible parking for people with disabilities will be located on the paved lot on Mullet Drive to the north of the Exploration Tower. Drivers can exit to State Road 528 or A1A.

• Leaving Port Canaveral after the launch: If you want to travel west on State Road 528 after the launch, use Lots A or B. If you want to drive to Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, State Road 520 or points south on State Road A1A Use Lots C, D, E, F, H, I.

Dave Berman is government editor at FLORIDA TODAY.

Contact Berman at 321-242-3649

or dberman@floridatoday.com.

Twitter: @bydaveberman

Facebook: /dave.berman.54

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