Heavy traffic expected in the Florida Keys for the Fourth of July parade, weekend
If you’re planning a trip to the Florida Keys on the Fourth of July, be prepared for heavy traffic both on the roads and the water.
Thursday morning, the annual Independence Day parade is expected to slow traffic in Key Largo from around 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
The parade route will be the northbound lanes of U.S. 1, or the Overseas Highway, starting at mile marker 97. All traffic starting at 9:45 a.m. will be diverted to the southbound lanes of the highway, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
“Motorists should avoid the area during those times, if possible,” said Adam Linhardt, sheriff’s office spokesman.
Extra deputies patrolling waterways
If you’re planning on launching a vessel from any of the Keys boat ramps, give yourself time, and leave earlier than later, if you can.
Like any busy holiday weekend, the sandbar areas in the Keys are sure to be crowded. There will be extra deputies patrolling the waters, but the sheriff’s office is urging people to “be patient and courteous at sandbars, other gathering areas, and especially at marinas and boat ramps, as they are expected to be busy.”
Alcohol is likely going to be a part of many people’s celebrations, which, is legal on the waterways. But, the sheriff’s office said it will be on the lookout for impaired drivers on the highway and on the water.
“Designate a sober driver,” Linhardt said. “For your car or your boat.”
Deputies will also be keeping an eye out for people littering, both on land and the water.
And, in terms of the pyrotechnics that mark the end of any July 4th celebration?
“Please leave the fireworks to the professionals,” Linhardt said.
