July 3 traffic undergoes major shift

By Michael P. Walsh

Special to the Voice

An estimated 100,000 people of all ages are expected to flock to the city’s 3.5-mile shoreline July 3 to watch the Savin Rock Fireworks Committee launch the region’s largest Independence Day fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. off Bradley Point.

The rain date is July 5.

Before the patriotic display, partygoers can dance the night away to rock ’n’ roll hits performed by The Navels at the Savin Rock bandstand from 6:30-9 p.m.

The pre-event festivities will also include a smorgasbord of food trucks dishing up eats and sweets at designated locations on the south side of Captain Thomas Boulevard and Ocean Avenue.

In preparation for the annual event the Police Department is rolling out a comprehensive traffic-management plan aimed at protecting the public.

The large-scale traffic plan will close many shoreline roads in the hours before the 9:15 p.m. display in an effort to protect pedestrians and allow for the safe passage of emergency vehicles.

Residents and nonresidents should take note that “No Parking” signs will be posted on both sides of Platt Avenue from Ocean Avenue to Randall’s Restaurant; Dyke Street from Captain Thomas Boulevard to Educational Way; Kelsey Avenue from Captain Thomas Boulevard to Graham Avenue; Ocean Avenue from South to Ivy streets; and the even side of all side streets off Ocean Avenue from South to Ivy streets.

Also, “No Parking” signs will be posted on the north side of Connecticut Avenue; the even side of all side streets off Ocean Avenue to Highland Avenue; the even side of Highland Avenue from Arlington to Linden streets; and the even side of all side streets off Beach Street to Thomas Street.

Police can tag and tow vehicles violating the traffic plan at the owner’s expense. Violators are also subject to a $100 fine.

All municipal beach parking lots will open at 9:15 a.m. July 3. Both residents and nonresidents will be charged for parking per entrance. The fee is $5 for vehicles with a valid beach sticker that is adhered to the windshield and $10 for vehicles without a valid beach sticker.

Metered parking in all beach lots will be suspended July 3. However, metered parking will be offered on Palace Street, a pay-for-parking site for both residents and nonresidents. Beach stickers are not valid on Palace Street.

Please be advised that at 6 p.m. July 3, the following road closures will be in effect: Ocean Avenue from South Street to Platt Avenue; Platt Avenue from Ocean Avenue to Educational Way; and Captain Thomas Boulevard from Platt Avenue to Rock Street.

Those who park in the South Street, Dawson Avenue or Sea Bluff beach lots during the day can stay for the fireworks, but they will have to keep their vehicles in the lots until the road is reopened at 11 p.m. Otherwise, they will have to leave the lots before 6 p.m. because of the road closure.

Residents and nonresidents should also take note that police will strictly enforce all beach regulations, which are posted at each access point along the shoreline, as well as the following restrictions:

—    All bags will be subject to search before entering the beach area.

—    No coolers or alcoholic beverages will be allowed on the beach.

—    No disorderly or obscene conduct will be tolerated.

—    No open fires or cooking will be allowed on the beach.