Sunbury committee reviews July 4 parade plan, considers expanded no-parking on Cherry Street

Sunbury City event organizers discussed final logistics for the July 4 parade and evening celebration at a June 17 Events and Commemoration Committee meeting, including a possible expansion of no-parking zones on Cherry Street and steps to notify nearby property owners. Committee members said the city and the Civic Association are coordinating parade staging, portable restrooms, signage and safety staffing for the day.

The Civic Association representative, Joanne Dusett Banton, said the parade will use the same route as last year and that bagel banners will begin at 9:45 a.m. with the parade starting at 10 a.m. She told the committee the group expects fewer entries because July 4 falls on a Friday but will accommodate late sign-ups. "Keeping the route the same as last year is the best option," Dusett Banton said.

Committee members and staff discussed a proposal, supported by public safety staff, to extend the no-parking restriction on the business side of Cherry Street to improve visibility at the sharp turn near the square. Staff said outreach to business owners is ongoing; most owners are expected to be closed on July 4 but one business, Serve, will likely be open. The committee did not adopt a binding change at the meeting and characterized the parking adjustment as "considered" and subject to further consultation with owners and public safety.

Staff also said they will prepare and hand-deliver a notice to property owners closest to the fireworks launch site on Lehi Avenue to discourage private fireworks near the municipal launch. The Civic Association and city staff plan to install four 36-by-42-inch vinyl signs at school and park entrances warning residents not to ignite private fireworks that could interfere with the display. Fire Chief Kovach and Officer Alexander participated in planning discussions, and organizers said emergency services have reviewed the plan and raised no unresolved safety objections.

Other operational details confirmed by organizers include portable restroom placements on the square, volunteer perimeter checks coordinated with police and fire, and use of Big Walnut Middle School for an afternoon kid zone, food trucks and bounce houses beginning at 4 p.m. The committee said final plans and maps will be shared with parks and council before the city’s July 2 council meeting.