The public will have an opportunity to see the "A" Mountain fireworks display from a closer perspective come July 4.
UA's Parking and Transportation Services will allow pedestrians to sit or stand on the top levels of the Tyndall, Main Gate and Sixth Street Garages in order to get a better view of the fireworks the city of Tucson will be displaying from "A" Mountain, said Mike Belahanty, operations manager for PTS.
The free-of-charge event has been a success with public support over the past three to four years enabling it to return atop these parking structures where pedestrians are welcome, though vehicles must be left behind, Belahanty said.
Security personnel will help ensure the top levels of each garage will be blocked off for safety reasons as well as to accommodate all the people who want to view the luminous fireworks spectacle without the hassle of dodging both car and pedestrian, Belahanty said.
"The public loves it and it's very convenient for them," Belahanty said. "They get a great view and don't have to fight the traffic near 'A' Mountain where everyone seems to want to go."
Belahanty said more than 200 people watched the fireworks display from "A" Mountain atop the Sixth Street Garage last year, a number which he said would probably increase atop all garages this year.
"We think this setup provides a nice area for families to enjoy this spectacular once-a-year event in a different environment than they're used to," Belahanty said. "We have the facilities, so we might as well let the community use them."
Drinks, and possibly "port-a-potties," will be provided this year with the sale of bottled water, which Belahanty said the public had been in favor of last year after standing hours at a time in the summer heat without being properly hydrated.
With the exception of glass bottles, Belahanty said the public is allowed to bring in its own food and drink to enjoy the event.