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Milton outlines compact Riverfest plan for July 4: roads to close early, fireworks launch from Monroe Street
Summary
Milton staff described a condensed July 4 Riverfest—3 p.m.–9 p.m.—with inflatables, a duck race, a concert and a 9 p.m. fireworks show launched from the Monroe Street area; road closures, towing and river restrictions are part of the safety plan.
City staff outlined a compact Riverfest plan for July 4 during the June 10 Milton City Council meeting, emphasizing public safety, a condensed event schedule and logistics for attendees and vendors.
Staff said the city will run the event from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. to shorten staff hours and limit extended cleanup. The schedule includes inflatable water slides (3 p.m.–about 8:45 p.m.), the Milton Duck Race at 5 p.m. hosted by the Blackwater Pirates, a Bands on the Blackwater concert at 7 p.m., and a fireworks display at 9 p.m. The city indicated the fireworks will be launched from the end of Monroe Street and that Russell Harbor Landing, the Riverwalk north end and Carpenter’s Park will be good viewing locations.
Public-safety measures presented included closing specific roads as early as 7 a.m., allowing only placarded vehicles inside closures and assigning officers to key intersections. Staff said unauthorized cars located within barricaded zones may be towed. Watercraft restrictions and no-anchoring zones on stretches of the Blackwater River were also proposed for safety during setup and the fireworks display. Staff said they will coordinate with Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office, Milton Police Department and Florida Fish and Wildlife as needed.
City staff said sponsorships and some budgeted band funds were reallocated to support the July 4 event and that the county commission provided a $10,000 contribution for fireworks. The presentation was informational; no council vote was required.
