SHAWANO, WI- Visitors heading to Shawano’s Independence Day fireworks will notice a few changes this year at the Shawano Municipal Airport, where officials have introduced a new parking plan designed to improve access and accommodate wet ground conditions.
Bruce Milavitz says the airport is “100 percent go” for Friday night’s festivities and is ready to welcome spectators.
“We wanted to let everybody know that this community asset is going to be utilized for tonight’s fireworks,” Milavitz said. “We’re going to make it better than it’s been in the past.”
Due to recent rainfall, portions of the grassy parking areas traditionally used during the fireworks are too soft for vehicle traffic. Instead, spectators will be directed onto higher, gravel-covered portions of the airport property, including areas near the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) building and sections of the airport tarmac.
Drivers should enter through the airport’s main entrance, rather than the gate near the bowling alley that has been used in previous years. Signs will direct motorists to the new entrance, and staff will be on hand to assist with traffic flow.
Once parked, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks from a variety of viewing locations throughout the airport grounds.
“We’re going to line up cars on the high ground, and then we’ll fill in the tarmac area,” Milavitz said. “People won’t be stuck in their cars. They’ll be able to get out, set up their lawn chairs, and enjoy a different view of the fireworks.”
Parking will once again be managed by the Shawano Lions Club. Parking is available for a free-will donation, with proceeds supporting the club’s community projects.
Milavitz encouraged visitors to thank the volunteers for donating their time and to consider making a donation if they’re able.
Because all vehicles will enter through a single access point, airport officials are asking visitors to be patient when leaving following the fireworks. While traffic will ultimately exit onto the same roadway, vehicles will be able to funnel from two locations on airport property to help improve traffic flow.
The Shawano fireworks are scheduled for Friday evening, with airport parking opening before the display. Officials encourage attendees to arrive early, follow posted signs, and enjoy what promises to be a unique viewing experience from the airport grounds.
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