NYPD Reminder: No East River Fireworks This July 4th

Queens police officials are hoping to avoid confusion and disappointment this July 4th by reminding residents that they will not be able to view the annual Macy's fireworks display from sites along the East River in Long Island City.

NYPD Queens North Borough Commander Diana Pizzuti is telling residents that in recognition of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's exploration of the Hudson River, Macy's officials have moved the 2009 July 4 fireworks extravaganza from the East River to the Hudson River.

In past years, crowds gathered at locations along the waterfront for a bird's eye-view of the fireworks, Pizzuti said. This year, the fireworks will be set off from barges located between 24th and 30th Streets on the Hudson River, completely removing any view from the Long Island City waterfront or Roosevelt Island.

Deputy Inspector Paul Vorbeck said, "Your local 114th Precinct would like to inform its residents that the annual Macy's fireworks display is moving across town in 2009. There will be no view from Roosevelt Island."

Vorbeck said the best viewing location will be from Manhattan's West Side, as well as New Jersey.

Pizzuti and Vorbeck said that Queens residents needn't leave the borough this year to enjoy a spectacular July 4th fireworks display.

The Central Astoria Local Development Coalition (CALDC) will present its 27th annual Independence Day Celebration on Monday, June 29th at 7:30 p.m., featuring a flag-waving musical performance and a spectacular fireworks display by the Grucci family.

The July 4th celebration takes place on the Astoria Park Lawn, Shore Boulevard, between the Hell Gate Bridge and Astoria Pool, Vorbeck said.

For more information on the Astoria Park fireworks display, call CALDC at 718-728-7820.

"Hope to see you there," Vorbeck said. "Have a happy Fourth of July, and a safe and healthy holiday!"