Friday, Jul. 03, 2009

East St. Louis park open for fireworks; may be best view of Fair St. Louis

The place hailed by many as the best view of the Fair St. Louis fireworks display is open for its first Independence Day.

The Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park and the Mississippi River Overlook on the banks of the East St. Louis Riverfront will be open to the public for extended hours during the July 4th holiday, the Metro East Park and Recreation District announced Thursday.

The 34-acre park and five-tiered observation deck sit across the river from the Gateway Arch.

The park will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. today and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday.

The overlook will be open from 4 to 8 p.m. today and noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, but will be closed to the public before the fireworks are put on display.

Park officials will turn off the lights on the ramp to allow all visitors the best view of the fireworks, so for safety reasons, the public will not be allowed on the unlit ramp, spokeswoman Susan Clark said.

"The park grounds offer just as great a view of the fireworks as the overlook," she said.

The 630-foot Gateway Geyser fountain is scheduled to erupt at 6 and 9 p.m. today and at noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Saturday.

Those visiting the park are encouraged to bring blankets and snacks.

The park does not allow alcohol, fireworks or sparklers, glass containers, grills or pets. All bags, purses and coolers will be searched upon entry.

Parking is limited, so guests are encouraged to utilize the MetroLink station parking at the Casino Queen and walk down Front Street to the park.

For more information about the park, visit www.meprd.org.