Rumson’s fireworks will take place same time as Red Bank’s on July 3. (Photo by Dustin Racioppi; click to enlarge)
By DUSTIN RACIOPPI
While hundreds of thousands rub elbows to get a view of the Independence Day fireworks in Red Bank Sunday, just a few miles east, there’ll be a more subdued, but pyrotechnically identical, affair going on in Rumson.
For the fourth straight year, the borough will host Rumson’s Fireworks on the Navesink, a duplication of Red Bank’s Kaboom! Fireworks on the Navesink that draws between 12,000 and 14,000 visitors along the eastern banks of the Navesink River.
The borough has put out information to all businesses and residents in advance of the show, warning of parking and traffic expectations, and where to catch the action.
Here’s the rundown for the show, which goes from about 9 to 9:30 p.m.:
Parking: It’s extremely limited. If you live in the area, walking is the best option. If not, be sure to get into town early. The Oceanic Bridge, as well as the roads around it — Bingham Avenue and West River Road to Brennan’s Delicatessen — will be shut down to traffic an hour before and after the show, Mayor John Ekdahl said. Traffic will be heaviest between 8 and 11 p.m., so plan accordingly.
Police: All hands are on deck for this one. Rumson’s 18 officers, plus about six more from Sea Bright and Fair Haven, will patrol the area. Alcohol is not allowed on borough streets, sidewalks, the bridge or any public areas, and police will enforce that law.
Cost: Even though the light show is the same as Red Bank’s, the cost is considerably lower in Rumson. Through private donations and pretty under-the-radar fundraising, the borough is close to covering the estimate $110,000 needed for the show and police overtime, Ekdahl said.
Viewing: If you live on the river, chances are you’ve got a viewing party lined up, and the borough suggests drawing up and checking a guest list to ensure no strangers try to get in. For the rest of the public, Victory Park is open to catch the show. The fireworks are launched from just west of the bridge, and that will be open for some killer views, as well, Ekdahl said.
“If you walk out half-way or more, you’ll be able to watch both shows simultaneously and you can see how well-coordinated it is,” he said.
