Kingston Fourth of July Fireworks Depend on DOT Permit

Kingston’s Fourth of July fireworks have traditionally been shot off from the Route 9W bridge, but this year the state Department of Transportation balked at issuing a permit.

The Kingston Times reported that officials were scrambling for an alternative.

However, the DOT now says it's helping with a solution for 2016.

NYSDOT has worked with the city of Kingston on a compromise for a special use permit for the Route 9W bridge which will allow this year’s July 4th fireworks to continue, while addressing the Department’s safety priorities. The permit will require a full closure of the bridge from 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. on July 4 to safely provide for the setup and discharge of the fireworks.  Traffic control and detours will be managed by the city and local law enforcement and emergency services.  Alternative plans will be made by the city for future celebrations.

The contretemps came about when the DOT went through its permit review process this year, public safety concerns were raised with having live fireworks adjacent to moving traffic, said spokeswoman Gina DiSarro. "However, NYSDOT is glad we could come to a compromise with the city of Kingston so their celebration could continue as planned this year."

Look for the city's fireworks to go off as previously planned.