Road closures announced for City of Sarasota’s Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular on Thursday, July Fourth

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Use of designated drivers encouraged

The July Fourth fireworks show in downtown Sarasota takse place on the bayfront. Photo montage by Robert Hackney

With the Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular scheduled for 9 p.m. on Thursday, July Fourth, at the Sarasota bayfront, the Sarasota Police Department is reminding mem­bers of the public that the festivities traditionally “attract thousands of people.”

“The Sarasota Police Department is committed to keeping residents and visitors safe,” the release continues. Therefore, the release says, “Remember, if you SEE something, SAY something. Report any suspicious activity or behavior to law enforcement immediately.”
The agency also is announcing details about road closures and limited parking availability, in an effort to assist those planning to attend the event:

Road closures/limited parking

  • From noon through midnight on July 4, Main Street will be closed from Five Points to Palm Avenue for El Melvin’s block party. The event will run from 4 to 11 p.m.
  • From 7 to 10:30 p.m.,Bayfront Drive (U.S. 41) will be closed from Orange Avenue to Gulfstream Avenue, for the fireworks show.
  • “The Parking Lot at Bayfront Park/ Island Park will be closed when it reaches maximum capacity,” the release points out.No parking will permitted on the grassy area on the south end of Bayfront Park, the release adds.
  • “Parking will notbe allowed in the median on John Ringling Boulevard,” the release emphasizes. “Drivers should observe ‘No Parking’ signs.”

Further, the release stresses, “Vehicle traffic leaving the Bayfront/Downtown area following the fireworks on Thursday, July 4, 2024, will be subject to certain restricted traffic control measures as part of a comprehensive exit plan. Expect long traffic delays of up to one hour when exiting the event.”

Plan ahead: Have a designated driver
“AAA Tow to Go Program will be offered to make sure those who are celebrating the holiday get home safely,” the release adds. The free, confidential, local ride is available within a 10-mile radius of a safe location.

The service will be available from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, until 6 a.m. on Monday, July 8 in Florida, the release notes. Call 1-855-TOW-2-GO (1-855-286-9246) or visit https://autoclubsouth.aaa.com/safety/tow_to_go.aspx

“It is never okay to drink and drive,” the release points out. “Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to get home safely.”

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