REDMOND, OR -- The second annual FairWell Festival is this weekend at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch says the city is ready for the influx of people. "Last year, there were tens of thousands of people each day at the FairWell Festival. We anticipate a high number again this year." 

Organizers called last year's inaugural event a huge success, but attendees complained about long lines to exit the fairgrounds each evening. Fitch says they're making changes, "We've had much better coordination with all affected agencies, regarding traffic issues at the fairgrounds and security and directions. So, I think this year will go a lot better than last year."

Fitch tells KBND News, "There will be shuttles from the two high schools and another location, back and forth, so that people can get out much easier than they could last year. We're also talking about having a shuttle to downtown so people can get out of the festival for a few hours and visit downtown Redmond. "

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is in charge of law enforcement at the fairgrounds. Sgt. Jason Wall says deputies will be on patrol, "As a matter of practice, we offer overtime shifts to our deputies, which fall outside of their normal working hours, to supplement the law enforcement presence out there." 

The FairWell Festival runs Friday through Sunday and boasts more than 30 musical performances.