The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department will take to the streets today to ensure traffic keeps moving as some 25,000 people flock to cheer on vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin in Noblesville.

Lt. Kevin Fessel said the department will treat the campaign visit from the Alaska governor as they do when a popular rock star performs at the Wireless Music Center.

"The security is different than any other concert because the Secret Service is involved," Fessel said. "As far as getting traffic in and out, we are handling it like we would any other concert."

Deputies will be monitoring traffic and controlling signals to make sure the cars keep moving. Fessel expects many to arrive early and stack claim to the best seats. The parking lot opens at 11 a.m. and the facility opens at 1.

Fessel is urging drivers to avoid using northbound I-69, which is where most traffic backups occur. Eastbound 146th Street offers the best way into the parking area, he said.

The rally starts at 4:30 p.m. Palin is scheduled to speak about 5:30 p.m.

Palin's speech will be followed by country music singer Aaron Tippin, who has sung his "Drill Here, Drill Now" anthem to oil exploration at other Palin rallies.

Fessel said he hopes the event concludes at about 6:45 p.m. so the traffic will be leaving the venue after the evening rush.