The Newport Police Department issued a traffic advisory Tuesday afternoon ahead of the city’s annual Independence Day fireworks celebration, warning drivers of parking restrictions designed to ease congestion during the popular event.
Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 4th, no parking will be allowed on West Narragansett Avenue between Thames Street and Marchant Street. The restriction will remain in effect until approximately 11:00 p.m., with police warning that vehicles parked in the designated area will be towed.
The fireworks display is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:15 p.m., weather permitting, with prime viewing locations available along Newport’s scenic Harborfront. The popular annual event typically draws large crowds to King Park, Fort Adams State Park, and all along the Newport waterfront.
Lieutenant Joseph C. Carroll, the department’s Public Information Officer and Community Policing Unit supervisor, emphasized that the parking enforcement measures are necessary to manage the heavy traffic flow expected during the celebration.
In case of inclement weather, organizers have designated Saturday, July 5th as the rain date for the fireworks show. Police noted that the same parking restrictions would apply if the event needs to be rescheduled.
