Flood update: Fireworks show will go on; Water Street reopened
- Details
- Published on Friday, 26 June 2015 14:43
- Written by Paul Gordon
The city of Peoria’s amazing Fourth of July fireworks show will go on as scheduled despite the flooding that has altered traffic in downtown Peoria.
The City Manager’s office said Friday that the UnityPoint Health-Methodist/Proctor Red, White & BOOM show will see some logistical changes for those planning to come downtown that night.
That includes the fact that the temporary flood wall that thus far is containing the Illinois River from reaching Water Street will nonetheless prevent people from getting much beyond Water Street to view the fireworks show.
Water Street, which has reopened for vehicular traffic after being closed Thursday so the flood wall could be reinforced, will be closed to vehicles on July 4. It will be open for foot traffic.
“At this point, the reinforcement of the wall is complete and we are anticipating water levels to go down in the next week”, said Public Works Director Mike Rogers in a news release.
“To protect the reinforced area, Water Street will be closed to vehicular traffic from State Street to Eaton for the Fourthof July events. The public is invited to view the show from Water Street.” The release said.
Parking in the Niagara & Jefferson decks will be free and available on a first come, first served basis that night.
“All agencies have come together to make sure this event is spectacular. We rarely close our streets and we’re hoping the public enjoys this pedestrian-friendly event,” said City Manager Patrick Urich.
Food will be available from businesses and vendors located along the Riverfront.
The city also reminded the public that while Water Street is reopened, the Riverfront Market will still be in the marquee parking lot of the Peoria Civic Center the next two Saturdays, June 27 and July 4. That parking lot is at the corner of Jefferson Street and Kumpf Boulevard.
The market will feature over 75 vendors, live music, demonstrations and more. Hours for the market are from 8 a.m. until noon. Free parking for both days will be available during market hours in the PNC Bank parking deck at Liberty and Jefferson.
For updates involving city issues, please visit www.peoriagov.org or the city’s facebook page (www.facebook.com/peoriail) or follow the city Twitter feed (@CityofPeoria_IL)
