Police Department urging public to use designated drivers as needed
The Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular will take place on Friday, July 4, beginning at 9 p.m., the Sarasota Police Department is reminding the public.
As the festivities “will attract thousands of people to the City of Sarasota,” a news release says, the Sarasota Police Department is committed to keeping residents and visitors safe.
In an effort to promote safe enjoyment of the event, the release continues, department personnel are asking the public to remember “if you SEE something, SAY something. Report any suspicious activity or behavior to law enforcement immediately.”
Road closures/limited parking
From 7 to 10:30 p.m., the release notes, Bayfront Drive (U.S. 41) will be closed from Orange Avenue to Gulfstream Avenue for the fireworks show.
The parking lot locat3ed at Bayfront Park/Island Park will be closed when it has reached maximum capacity, the release points out. “No parking is permitted on the grassy area on the south end of Bayfront Park,” the release adds.
“Parking will not be allowed in the median on John Ringling Boulevard,” the release stresses. “Drivers should observe ‘No Parking’ signs,” the release points out.
For further emphasis, the release says, “NO STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING on the John Ringling Bridge.”
Further, the release continues, vehicle traffic leaving the Bayfront/downtown area following the fireworks “will be subject to certain restricted traffic control measures as part of a comprehensive exit plan.” Drivers and passengers should “expect long traffic delays of up to one hour when exiting the event.”
Use of designated drivers urged
The release also notes that the AAA Tow to Go Program will be offered on July 4 “to make sure those who are celebrating the holiday get home safely. The free, confidential, local ride” is offered within a 10-mile radius of a safe location, the release notes. The service will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and continue until 6 a.m. on Monday, July 7, in Florida. Call 1-855-TOW-2-GO (1-855-286-9246) or visit https://autoclubsouth.aaa.com/safety/tow_to_go.aspx
The release adds, “It is never okay to drink and drive. 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.”