SYRACUSE -- If you plan to head to the State Fairgrounds this weekend to watch the big fireworks display, don't park on the side of the highway. That's the message from State Police and the State Transportation Department.
Officials are asking drivers not to stop or parking along Interstate 690 and State Route 695 or the access ramps during the fireworks display.
In previous years, drivers have used the shoulders and ramps of the highways as a place to park to watch the fireworks. In some cases, people have even set up lawn chairs and had impromptu tailgate parties along the highway, which is illegal.
Interstate 690 and State Route 695 are high-speed highways with a speed limit of 65 miles per hour. Stopping or parking along the highway can be very dangerous.
You can park for free at the fairgrounds. The gates open at 5 p.m. The Syracuse University Brass Ensemble starts at 6 p.m. and the Symphony Syracuse begins at 8 p.m.. Fireworks at the Fairgrounds are scheduled to begin at approximately 9:45 p.m.
State Police and DOT officials will be out making sure drivers don't park along the highway. They will tickets violators. You could face a fine of up to $150 or 15 days in jail.
Another area police are concerned about is along Interstate 81 in Brewerton, where fireworks are scheduled for Sunday. In past years, vehicles have parked on and near the Oneida River Bridge, creating a hazardous situation.
State Police will be patrolling the area and ticketing and towing vehicles parked illegally.
Drivers should also be aware that the Interstate 81 bridge over Oneida Lake is currently under construction. Right after the fireworks display, Exit 31 on I-81 (Brewerton) will be closed to traffic exiting from I-81 onto Bartel Road (northbound and southbound) for about a half an hour.
