Queens police officials this week issued a reminder to the public that, again this year, they will not be able to view the annual Macy’s fireworks display from sites along the East River in Long Island City.
NYPD Queens North Borough Commander, Assistant Chief Diana Pizzuti, is reminding residents that the annual Macy’s July 4th fireworks extravaganza will take place again this year over the Hudson River – thus eliminating any view of the fireworks from the Western Queens waterfront.
Macy’s officials moved the fireworks from the East River to the Hudson River in 2009 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s exploration of the Hudson River. Officials said the fireworks display would eventually return to the East River but refused to say when.
In past years, crowds gathered at piers, Gantry Park and other locations along the Long Island City waterfront for a bird’s-eye view of the fireworks This year, the fireworks will be set off from barges located between 24th and 30th Streets in Manhattan.
Likewise, officials at the 114th Precinct are advising residents that the move will prohibit a view of the fireworks from Roosevelt Island. Officials said the best viewing location would be from Manhattan’s west side, as well as New Jersey.
Police are also reminding residents that it is against the law to use, possess or sell illegal fireworks in New York City.
Teams of Fireworks Interdiction cops will hit the streets this week, searching for violators who use, possess or sell the illegal explosives, police said.
“Remember, anyone caught in possession of illegal explosives will be arrested and put through the system,” police officials said. “This will not result in a summons or a Desk Appearance Ticket, so if you use, own or sell fireworks and are caught in the process, be prepared to spend a few nights behind bars,” police officials declared.
The fireworks enforcement will continue through mid-July, police said.
