The Show Will Go On: West Orange Council OKs 2023 Fireworks

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The 2023 fireworks show will go on as planned in West Orange.

On Friday, the West Orange Town Council voted in favor of a resolution that authorizes the West Orange Recreation Department to hold the annual display, which will be put on by Garden State Fireworks.

The Township of West Orange will host the public celebration on Tuesday, July 4 at West Orange High School. It will include fireworks, food trucks, a kids zone, a DJ and other activities. A rain date is set for July 5. Read More: See Independence Day Fireworks Around West Orange For 2023

The council was scheduled to approve the fireworks show at their meeting last week, but after safety concerns around planning and crowds emerged, the council put off their vote to probe the issue further. The move made many people ask the question: Are the fireworks canceled?

West Orange residents now have an answer to that question: Nope.

Councilman Bill Rutherford said the council never actually “cancelled” the fireworks show – they simply declined to vote on its approval that night. It was a point seconded by Council President Tammy Williams, who said the intent was never to delay the fireworks show's approval – only to make sure it was safe.

• See Related: West Orange July 4th Fireworks Canceled – Or Are They?

SAFETY

At Friday’s meeting, administrators with the township’s recreation department, police department and public school district – as well as Mayor Susan McCartney – said there is a satisfactory safety plan in place for the fireworks show.

West Orange Police Chief James Abbott acknowledged that “miscommunication” may have played into last week’s questions about the security plan for the fireworks show.

Abbott mentioned that the concerns stem from two incidents that took place at last year’s event: a fight between teens, and juveniles who threw fireworks as a prank and yelled “gun” – causing a commotion in the crowd. There were also reports of juveniles smoking cannabis, he added.

• See Related: Teens Get Minor Injuries During Fight At West Orange Fireworks Show

“We’re confident that we can make this happen,” Abbott said of this year’s display.

The chief declined to elaborate on the operational plan – citing safety – but said the planned police presence at the event would be “double what we had last year.”

Abbott said there are always cautions and concerns when it comes to hosting large public events, including fireworks shows. But the town’s plan is solid and is a “calculated risk” that is worth it, he opined.

“I don’t think anybody wants to live in a bubble the rest of our lives,” he added, questioning if the Independence Day celebration is nixed over security concerns, other events such as the town’s popular St. Patrick’s Day parade may follow suit.

WEST ORANGE 2023 FIREWORKS: WHAT TO KNOW

The township issued a statement about the fireworks show on Friday for anyone who plans to attend the celebration. It reads:

“The Degnan Park Complex will be closed to the public at 11 a.m., including access to the Kiddie Park, tennis courts, basketball courts, fishermen, and vehicular traffic. Alyssa Drive will only be accessible to authorized personnel; after the closure, the Township shall remove any unauthorized vehicle left unattended.

“At 1 p.m., the West Orange High School Athletic Fields will be closed, including the soccer, baseball, track, and football fields. Please remove all vehicles parked by the Bubble-Auto-Wood Shop Area; after the closure, the Township shall remove any unauthorized vehicle left unattended.

“The soccer and baseball field entrance will open at 6:30 p.m. for the Fireworks event. Please note that arriving earlier than the specified time may result in a denial of entry. Additionally, the Suriano Stadium will be closed during this event.

“You are welcome to bring your own bags and coolers to the event, but please be aware that they may be subject to a search. Please keep in mind that lighters, torches, fireworks, sparklers, and matches are prohibited at the event.

“Upon arrival, kindly observe the four exits on the soccer field and three exits on the baseball field before finding your spot. We have allocated more resources and staff to guarantee a safe, fun, and pleasant outdoor environment.

“The field lights will be illuminated from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., but they will be turned off during the fireworks show. At the show's conclusion, the lights will turn back on immediately to assist you in leaving the field. For increased visibility, portable light towers will be positioned at various locations throughout the complex.

“While New Jersey permits the use of marijuana, it's crucial to understand that tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and marijuana are not permitted on public and school grounds. If found in possession, individuals will be immediately removed; we encourage you to report any suspicious activity.

“We hope you have a fantastic time at our annual Township event.”

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