Pancakes, parades and fireworks in and around Park City this week are the makings of a good time but Melissa Allison tells us – take public transit because it’s going to be packed:
The celebration kicks off bright and early on the fourth. Park City Special Events Manager Jenny Diersen said the day begins with a couple of traditions.
“The historic Park City Ski Team 5K Fun Run starts at Park City base at about 8 o’clock in the morning," Diersen said. "I have local Boy Scouts doing the pancake breakfast at south City Park. Those are both very traditional, fun events to kick off the Fourth of July celebration.”
The parade starts at 11 a.m. at the top of Main St. and cuts over to Park Ave. on 9th St and past City Park. It’s expected to be over by 1 p.m.
This year’s Grand Marshall is former U.S. Ski and Snowboard Vice President of Communications Tom Kelly.
“The theme this year is winning spirit," Diersen said. "It does pay respect ot the city’s past and potential future Olympic and Paralympic legacy. He has done so much work both for U.S. ski and snowboard and Olympic Legacy but also in our community as a whole so we’re really honoring him with this year’s parade.”
To prepare for the big day, the city has removed parking at City Park as well as on Main St., Swede Ally and Heber Ave. Those roads will be closed to traffic early Wednesday morning along with Park Ave. from Heber Ave. to Deer Valley Dr.
Diersen said free parking and transit is available all around town.
“All of our resort partners as well as the high school have come on to offer free parking throughout the day," Diersen said. "So that’s again, Park City High School, Park City Mountain base, Canyons and Deer Valley all offering free parking with free transit to Main St. and the greater Park City area. And then, China Bridge, just like last year will be $20 starting at 8 o’clock until about 1 o’clock as soon as the parade is over, we go back to normal operations.”
If you have a Blue Square permit, you’re still able to park at China Bridge but if you can , Diersen asked that you park by the north Marsac Ave. or Gateway lot to leave room in China Bridge.
There will also be two bike valets at City Park in the skatepark lot and lower Main St. at 9th St.
Whether driving or riding your bike, Diersen urged everyone to be careful and to watch for pedestrians.
To cut down on traffic in Old Town, Diersen said they’ve enlisted the help of a security company to enforce parking restrictions.
The city does have a text alert system that will give you the most up to date traffic, transportation and emergency information. Just text PC Events to 888-777.
Lastly, there is a fire ban enacted in the Park City limits which prohibits the use of personal fireworks or open fires.
For more information visit parkcity.org.
I’m Melissa Allison, KPCW News.