Hoboken Councilman: Bring July 4th Fireworks Back To Hudson River

HOBOKEN, NJ — Remember when Hoboken had a front-row seat to the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular? Councilman Michael DeFusco does.

DeFusco announced he plans to introduce a resolution to help bring fireworks back to the Hudson River at Thursday’s council meeting. According to the councilman:

“This Fourth of July I enjoyed watching the Macy’s Fireworks in Manhattan, but as the sky lit up over the East River, I couldn’t help but fondly remember when Hoboken had a front row seat to a spectacular show. The day once brought visitors from across the tristate area to our city, helping boost sales for local businesses and adding to our cultural cache.”

DeFusco added:

“Tonight, I will be introducing a resolution outlining a plan for Hoboken to engage Macy's, Jersey City, New York City and other public and private sponsors to bring a fireworks display back to the Hoboken waterfront next year at minimal or no cost to taxpayers.”

The resolution is scheduled for a hearing on July 18. Its full text follows below.

WHEREAS, The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular had been regularly staged on
the Hudson River, until recently; and,

WHEREAS, during that time, Hoboken residents had a prime viewing location, providing
joy and patriotism to the City; and,

WHEREAS, Hoboken businesses benefited from the increased pedestrian traffic along
the waterfront on account of the fireworks display; and,

WHEREAS, after the Macy’s fireworks were move to the East River, Jersey City planned
their own fireworks and cultural event to provide their residents with 4th of July festivities;
and,

WHEREAS, for the past two years Jersey City has attracted residents and visitors to
their commercial business district, featuring a carnival, fireworks by Grucci and
musical performances by Kool and the Gang as well as Pittbull; and,

WHEREAS, Hoboken shares a common border with Jersey City and should consider a
joint event, to the benefit of both cities; and,

WHEREAS, Hoboken can offset, or fully cover, the costs of this event by securing
sponsors; and,

WHEREAS, by bringing fireworks we would provide a municipal experience for our
residents, attracts visitors to our local businesses and become a destination in which to
celebrate the Fourth of July at.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Hoboken
hereby requests that the mayor and administration develop a plan to bring fireworks back to
our waterfront next year.

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