Heading to Canalside on Tuesday to see the Fourth of July fireworks? Police say arrive early and leave your bags at home.
More than 25,000 people are expected to watch the fireworks at Canalside. In an effort to ensure everything runs safely, police are beefing up their presence, with both uniformed and plain-clothed officers.
All patrons will be subject to bag checks and metal detectors upon entry. The two entrances are on Marine Drive at Hanover Street and Lloyd Street.
Buffalo Police Lt. Jeff Rinaldo says no big bags will be allowed, except for small purses and diaper bags. No small fireworks or weapons are allowed.
Due to the size of the anticipated crowd, Rinaldo is reminding people to arrive at least an hour early.
For people taking public transit, NFTA will have extra buses and trains running. Anyone driving is encouraged to park in the lots next to KeyBank Center.
The Outer Harbor will also be accessible Tuesday evening as a site to watch the fireworks.
Last year, severe traffic jams sparked anger and questions over the organization of such a big event. The issue of crowds was compounded by the thousands of people visiting the installation of the world’s largest rubber duck on Buffalo’s waterfront.
In addition, reports of shots fired after the fireworks last year led the City to reanalyze its security presence and protocol. The Buffalo Police Department announced it would set up a police substation at Canalside. The substation officially opened this past weekend at Marine Drive and Hanover Street, ahead of the July Fourth celebration.
