Much like the sound level from across the bay on the Fourth of July, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) isn’t making noise about the opportunity for viewing fireworks from Beavertail State Park in Jamestown.
DEM spokesperson Kimberly Keough confirmed to Rhode Island Current that the state park will remain open Friday night for viewing of the city of Newport’s annual pyrotechnics show in the distance without having to deal with loud noise. The display is slated to kick off at 9:15 p.m.
The Department has promoted the viewing since 2019 as a way for people who are sensitive to loud noises to enjoy the holiday fireworks.
But the state is no longer referring to the event as “Quiet Fireworks” — or promoting it at all. That’s because last year proved a little too popular.
“Last year, emergency responders had difficulty gaining access because of the number of cars in the park,” Keough said in an email Wednesday. “We don’t have an exact number. Last year there were more cars than spots available (150), with cars parking along roadways in both directions.
“Due to this public safety concern and staffing constraints, the event is not being promoted; however, people are still welcome to park and enjoy the fireworks,” she continued.
To avoid the kind of traffic congestion that occurred last year, Keough said the DEM will have two law enforcement officers at the park while Jamestown police will monitor the entrance.
Parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the park will close once the lots are filled.
This story was originally published by the Rhode Island Current.
