Getting ready to celebrate – Albany officials outline road closures ahead of July 4th

ALBANY, Ga. – The City of Albany is putting the finishing touches for Tuesday’s July 4th celebration, and that includes the plans for road closures throughout downtown on Tuesday.

Albany Parks and Recreation director, Steven Belk spoke Monday afternoon about the celebration with closures beginning Monday night to begin setting up the fireworks.

“At 7 pm the city will close off several roads in the downtown area. This is the Broad Avenue Bridge from North Front Street to College Drive, and South Front Street from East Oglethorpe Boulevard to West Whitney Avenue,” said Steven Belk, Dir. Albany Parks and Recreation.

However, there are certainly plenty of safety precautions that the city is taking.

Albany Police Deputy Chief Wendy Luster spoke about the possibility of celebratory gunfire…

“Albany has not had a huge problem with celebratory gunfire. That’s something that we have around the new year. I won’t say that it doesn’t happen in our area, but we have zero tolerance for it. Because you never know when gunfire is going to hit someone and injure them,” said Deputy Chief Wendy Luster, Albany Police Department.

City officials also wanted to potentially discourage home use of fireworks for the safety of those wanting to launch them and those nearby.

“…We also have our officers patrolling in the neighborhoods. There will be lot of people who will probably pop firecrackers in the neighborhood. We encourage you to make sure that you be respectful of your neighbors and the neighborhood you live in,” said Deputy Chief Wendy Luster, Albany Police Department.

But between road closures and concerns, the City of Albany is asking for one more thing for the holiday.

“Come on out, enjoy the vendors, enjoy the music. But most importantly come on out and enjoy the fun filled experience when things go boom, we’re looking forward to seeing you there,” said Steven Belk, Dir. Albany Parks and Recreation.

As law enforcement begins to block off downtown roads for the celebration, the city is encouraging everyone who comes out Tuesday to drive safely.

Festivities will start at the Veterans Park Amphitheater at five thirty with fireworks beginning at nine thirty.

Brian Roche reporting.

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