CLEARWATER, FL (WFLA)- The Clearwater Police Department reminds people to pack patience when it comes to traffic issues related to the beach this holiday weekend and the fireworks extravaganza on Saturday night.
Clearwater Beach is expected to be packed all weekend, especially on Saturday with the Fourth of July falling on that day. Portable message boards have been posted around downtown Clearwater and the beach area reminding people to expect traffic congestion during the weekend.
The Memorial Causeway Bridge will be closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic from approximately 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday because of the fireworks, which are launched adjacent to the bridge. The show will last approximately 22 minutes. The most popular viewing spot for the fireworks show is from Coachman Park, where there will be a variety of activities, including a free concert.
Plenty of police officers will patrol Clearwater Beach during the holiday weekend – some on foot, others on bicycle, still others in patrol cars or on ATVs on the sand. They will be keeping a close eye out for those who violate the city’s ban on alcohol at the beach.
The city’s lifeguards also stress the importance of swimming only in designated areas where they can keep an eye on those who are in the water.
Proper hydration is important as well as heat-index readings will soar above 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
