Town Board addresses Fourth of July parade safety concerns over candy distribution and vehicles

The Grand Island Traffic Safety Advisory Board convened on July 8, 2025, to address pressing safety concerns related to local events, particularly the Fourth of July parade. Key discussions highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations during community gatherings, especially regarding the distribution of candy and the behavior of vehicles in the parade.

Board members expressed concerns about children collecting candy from floats, which led to chaotic scenes during the parade. One member noted that while many participants followed the rules, there were significant instances of rule-breaking that could pose safety risks. The presence of vehicles, particularly high-performance cars like Corvettes, raised alarms about potential accidents if drivers lost control. The board emphasized the importance of having proctors along the parade route to monitor behavior and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the need for better communication and enforcement of existing policies. Members discussed the importance of reminding participants about safety measures before events to prevent accidents. Jose, a board member, was tasked with discussing these concerns with the recreation department to enhance safety measures for future events.

In a separate discussion, the board reviewed a delayed communication regarding a study request to Erie County about traffic safety improvements. The letter, which had been pending for ten months, was finally sent, and members expressed frustration over the delays in communication and follow-through.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to improve safety measures for community events and to ensure that communication with county officials is timely and effective. The next meeting is scheduled for August 12, 2025, where further discussions on traffic safety and community engagement are expected.