Golden Gate Bridge Fireworks Expected To Snarl Marin Traffic July 4

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Marin County officials are urging residents and visitors to plan ahead for significant traffic congestion Saturday as a fireworks display over the Golden Gate Bridge celebrates America's 250th birthday.

The event is expected to draw large crowds to both San Francisco and Marin County, creating heavy traffic throughout southern Marin beginning in the late afternoon and lasting well into the evening.

The Golden Gate Bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic from 8 p.m. to approximately 11 p.m. to accommodate the celebration, though officials said closure and reopening times could change based on public safety needs. The fireworks show is scheduled from about 9:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.

More California News:

• Why This Elephant Seal Turned Bright Purple In SMC
• Watch: Feasting Great White Sharks Prompt Beach Warning In Bay Area: Report
• Disneyland Announces $59 Ticket Deal For The Summer

Motorists should expect lengthy delays before and after the bridge closure, particularly along the U.S. Highway 101 corridor, Alexander Avenue, Spencer Avenue, Conzelman Road, the Marin Headlands and Sausalito.

Officials recommend avoiding nonessential travel in southern Marin during the evening if possible and considering public transit, rideshare services, walking or biking instead of driving.

Parking near popular viewing areas is expected to fill early, and county officials warned that cell phone service may be limited because of the large crowds.

Pedestrian and bicycle access to the bridge will also be affected. The east sidewalk between the bridge's two towers will remain closed from Friday morning through Sunday morning for event staging. Both sidewalks will close from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, with the west sidewalk expected to reopen to bicyclists at 10 p.m.

Travelers are encouraged to check 511.org or Caltrans QuickMap before leaving home for the latest traffic conditions and road closures.

Officials also reminded residents that personal fireworks remain illegal throughout Marin County and encouraged everyone to leave the fireworks to the professionals.