COVID-19 forces changes to Fourth of July events

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to increase in Boone County, Columbia Parks and Recreation is planning Fire in the Sky accordingly. This year the event will only include the firework show.

Parks and Recreation said it has been working to make sure people comply with recommendations from the Columbia/Boone County Health Department on limits on public gatherings and social distancing.

The health department is still encouraging people to practice social distancing by maintaining six feet between people.

Under the current order, gatherings are limited to 100 people. This includes private events, meaning Fourth of July BBQs or other gatherings at people's homes will be limited to 100 people as well.

Columbia Parks and Recreation moved to the fireworks-only event to prevent people from gathering.

"So this year, instead of having the big event at our downtown location with entertainment, live music, kid's activities, all the stuff that went along with the big event, this year it will be a fireworks show only," said Cassie Brandt with Parks and Recreation.

The location of the event is also different this year. The fireworks show will be at Cosmo-Bethel Park in south Columbia.

The city looked at several parks before making the decision to have it at Cosmo-Bethel Park. The city ultimately decided on that location based on the following: space for the fireworks discharge and fall zones, elevation in Columbia, distance from construction sites and distance from federal or Missouri highways so as to not cause traffic problems.

Parks and Recreation is asking people not to come toward the park in order to watch the event.

"There will be nothing to do if you come towards the event site. There is nothing except for the fireworks show," Brandt said.

Crews will block off parking at the park, Rock Bridge High School and Gentry Middle School to prevent people from gathering in the area.

Even though people will not be able to gather near the event, the show will reach a larger audience this year.

Last year’s fireworks display reached a height of 200-300 feet, this year’s display will reach a height of 300-600 feet. The display will be visible for around a four-mile radius which will reach around 40,606 households.

The show will be synchronized to music on BXR 102.3 so people will be able to tune in, even from miles away.