Scotts Valley police recommend that city residents park away from Skypark and walk to the event to avoid the expected heavy traffic.
“If you come to the event and park, don’t expect to leave right afterward,” said Chief John Weiss. “It’s just a gridlock.”
Weiss said the police have tried every conceivable traffic pattern, but much like a professional sports game, there is no way around the heavy crowds as people flock to Scotts Valley from the rest of the county.
Between 4,000 and 5,000 people usually pay to enter the event, and up to 20,000 more typically watch the show from outside the park. Scotts Valley’s population is less than 12,000.
“The further away you park, the faster you will get out of the event,” Weiss said.
Officers will be assigned to many of the city’s intersections and will patrol to keep fire lanes clear.
Festivities
- The Boulder Creek Fire Protection District hosts its annual pancake breakfast at the firehouse on July 4 from 7 a.m. to noon. The cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children.
- The Boulder Creek Parade will make its way up Highway 9 on July 4 at 10 a.m. The parade starts at Scarborough Lumber and makes its way to Railroad Avenue at the other end of town.
- Scotts Valley’s parade and fireworks festival. The parade on Scotts Valley Drive begins at 3 p.m. and Skypark will be open from 3 p.m. until the fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Tickets for the fireworks are $5 in advance and $7 at the door.
- Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton’s Fourth of July gala has a 1950s theme. Live music, children’s activities, barbecue and train rides highlight the day.
- The Ben Lomond Fire Protection District will host its 53rd annual pancake breakfast on July 5 at the Ben Lomond Fire House. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children.
duh