The Fireworks are Coming!

And so are thousands of their revelers. On Sunday, July 4th, people from all over the city will descend on the Byrd Park and Maymont neighborhoods in pursuit of the best spots from which to view the annual fireworks display.  Our neighborhoods will be host to parking problems and lots of foot traffic. But, rest assured that it’ll be over quick, so try to enjoy it.  If anyone has any safety suggestions, please drop a comment. Richmond.com has a guide to Fourth of July festivities. Here’s what they’ve got on the pyrotechnics  at Dogwood Dell:

Head out to Dogwood Dell for free music and fireworks in celebration of Independence Day. The celebration starts at 5 p.m. with R & B harmonies from Bak N Da Day, vocalist Rachel Leyco at 6:15 p.m., a carillon concert at 6:45 p.m. and the Richmond Concert Band with patriotic melodies at 7:15 p.m. Followed by fireworks. Bring chairs and blankets for extra seating. Good viewing spots can also be seen from Riverside Drive south of the river. Extra parking available at the University of Richmond parking lot. A shuttle bus will run to Dogwood Dell.

Of course, the perennial question is always… “What time do the fireworks start?” Hopefully, we’ll have that tidbit before the 4th.

UPDATE: Street closings and other notices from the RPD after the jump…

> From: “Waugh, Dionne – Police”
> Date: June 30, 2010 10:06:45 AM EDT
> Subject: Dogwood Dell July 4th Street Closures 063010 DW
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> RPD Restricts, Reroutes Traffic for Dogwood Dell Fireworks
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> June 30, 2010
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> To keep both the increased numbers of pedestrians and drivers safe during the annual fireworks display at Dogwood Dell on Sunday, July 4th, Richmond Police are urging citizens to make note of the below traffic detours, restrictions and suggestions.
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> The Boulevard will be closed to southbound traffic at West Cary Street starting at 7 p.m.
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> Westover Hills Boulevard will be closed at Forest Hill Avenue to northbound traffic beginning at 7 p.m. The detour is west on Forest Hill Avenue to the Powhite Parkway or east on Forest Hill Avenue to the Lee Bridge.
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> Douglasdale Road between McCloy and Blanton streets will be closed to vehicular traffic from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. The roadway will be used for shuttle buses only.
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> Shuttle Service is provided from the University of Richmond Stadium at McCloy Street and Douglasdale Road. Everyone is STRONGLY encouraged to use the shuttles before and after the fireworks display.
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> After the fireworks, all northbound traffic on the Boulevard will be detoured eastbound onto Interstate 195. If you are traveling east on 195, be aware that there is a .70-cent toll. The Boulevard northbound will reopen 30 minutes after the fireworks have ended.
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> REMEMBER: No parking will be allowed on grassy area, medians, bridges or roadways. “No Parking” signs will be posted in several areas, and will be strictly enforced. Vehicles will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense.