Peoria police say they are ready to handle the tens of thousands of people expected at this year’s Red White and Boom event. Organizers of the 4th of July celebration estimate up to 200-thousand people will view Friday’s fireworks display, with many doing it from the Peoria and East Peoria riverfronts.
The city of Peoria plans to have up to 55 officers on hand to monitor the crowds and for traffic control. Steve Roegge is a Lieutenant with the Peoria Police Department’s Special operations Unit.
“The one thing we ask is patience. You know, it’s such a large event. It’s a Friday. We expect large crowds. We just ask people to come down, enjoy it and understand that we’re doing the best we can to get as many people out of here as we’re able to.”
Roegge says the city will shut down Water Street beginning at four Friday afternoon. The exit to Washington Street from I-74 eastbound will also be closed while the fireworks are displayed over the Illinois River. It will remain closed until around 10:30.