In order to protect against fallout from the fireworks display during the Freedom Festival "Stadium of Fire" show at Cougar Stadium, Brigham Young University Police will enforce several parking and traffic restrictions around campus Saturday.
The 12-inch shells used for the fireworks show require a 1,600-foot diameter safety zone in order to meet National Fire Protection Agency regulations, said Steve Baker of the University Police.The main area of concern for the fallout is 150 East between University Parkway and 1230 North. The launch area directly south and east of Cougar Stadium will be closed until after the show when the area has been determined to be safe.
Three roadblocks will be established to adhere to safety standards. University Parkway from University Avenue to 450 and 150 East from 1230 North to University Parkway will close at 7:45 p.m., and 150 East from Stadium Avenue to University Parkway will close at 4 p.m.
Also, all BYU parking lots immediately south and southeast of the stadium as well as the baseball, track and field areas and the north section of Helaman Halls will close at 7:45 p.m. to pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
In addition to the road closures, the anticipated crowds for the event will make some parking restrictions necessary, said Baker.
Recreational vehicles will be required to park in Lot 37 (west of the Smith Fieldhouse). Those arriving before noon on July 4 may be asked to park in Lot 36 just south of Lot 37 due to the assembly of the Grand Parade.
Recreational vehicles and buses may allow people to disembark near the stadium before the roads are closed, but they must park in Lot 37. No buses or RVs will be allowed to park west of the stadium.
Disabled and handicapped parking for automobiles only will be available in lot 45 just west of the stadium on a first-come, first-served basis. After these spaces are filled, available stalls for the public may be used until the lot is full.
Public parking is available at the Marriott Center and on the main campus. The lots south and southeast of the stadium will not be available.
Bicycle parking will be allowed in racks northeast and northwest of the stadium and southwest of the stadium, east of Page School.
Following the "Stadium of Fire," those going north should take University Avenue to either Orem Center Street or 800 North to get to the freeway because University Parkway is usually full.
Also, because of the fire hazard, no fireworks will be allowed on Y Mountain, east of campus.