July 4th Tempe Town Lake Festival

Loop 202 is a "No Stopping" zone during July 4th Tempe Town Lake Festival



Authorities have a short message for drivers who are on the Loop 202 Red
Mountain Freeway during the 4th of July celebration at Tempe Town Lake: No
Stopping.



"It's just not safe to stop on the freeway," said Department of Public
Safety Officer Frank Valenzuela. "Drivers need to keep their eyes on the
road and keep moving. Our officers will be prepared to take enforcement
action should drivers try to stop along the freeway."



Last year DPS officers responded to nine minor crashes associated with
drivers slowing abruptly or trying to park on the shoulder of the Loop 202
while the annual fireworks show was underway.



The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will post electronic
messages along the Red Mountain Freeway over the weekend to remind drivers
that parking is not allowed on the freeway during the fireworks show.



Tempe Police Commander Phil Harris says people coming to the festival should
arrive early and find parking in city lots within easy walking distance of
Tempe Town Lake.



"The freeway ramps at Scottsdale Road will be closed before the fireworks
begin," said Commander Harris. "Our officers will be prepared to assist DPS
in keeping the traffic moving along the freeway."



Spectators also are reminded that bus service in Tempe is free all day on
July 4.