DETROIT – Metro Detroiters will be "oooooohing" and "aaahing" in a little more than two weeks when the Detroit Ford Fireworks presented by Target roll onto to the river front. But before the festivities, Mayor Dave Bing -- along with the Detroit police -- held a press conference Wednesday to explain some changes they're lighting off.
"This year we have a zero-policy for crime," Bing said.
First thing on the list is security: It will be bigger and better in 2013 and there's one big reason why.
"In light of the events at the Boston Marathon, we are heightening our security," Bing said.
Here's the plan:
- All coolers & back packs will be checked
- Anyone under the age of 17 has to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Curfew for minors start at 6pm day of the fireworks until 6 a.m. on June 25
- Oakland, Wayne, Macomb sheriffs, FBI, Border Patrol will assist
But for those families who've mastered the art of picking out the perfect spot, get ready for a wrench to be thrown in your Belle Isle and Hart Plaza plans.
According to the city, this year you won't be allowed to enter Belle Isle until 2 p.m. the day of the fireworks, same goes for Hart Plaza.
Once you're on Hart Plaza, you will not be allowed to leave. In fact, the plaza will close when a safe capacity is reached.
"We're having this briefing [today] so people can make the necessary adjustments to the changes," said Bing.
Adjustment's not all Detroiter's will be willing to make.
"It's an outing, it's a day, people make it a day in Detroit," said Detroit resident Denise Hudson. "We see all the fun things people do to pass the time and that makes it an experience."
RESTRICTIONS AND POLICIES:
Belle Isle:
Admittance onto the island will not be permitted until 2pm on June 24th
$10 parking passes will be issued by Parks and Recreation for the Paddock Area
Only see-through tents and/or canopies will be allowed in island.
Atwater Flats:
Atwater between Rivard and Joseph Campau will be closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic
Jefferson Avenue:
Barricaded pedestrian "walkways" will be erected at Griswold, Woodward and Randolph to control the entrances and exits to the south side of Jefferson
Riverwalk:
The Riverwalk will be closed to all spectators between Third and Joseph Campau at 2 p.m.