sandbar access 4th of july

OG · Since 07 Jun 2011 599 Posts Addicted

whats the story with kite access 4th of july? I remember seeing a post saying that something different was happening. Just makin' plans and gathering info for the weekend

ldhr · Since 21 Jul 2009 1489 Posts Hood River XTreme Poster

if i read this corectly - we can use the event site and sandbar until 7:00 PM but it doesn't specify if that's 7:00 PM on July 3 or 4?

pepi - what's the dealio?

The Fourth of July holiday will limit access to Port of Hood River property beginning Thursday, July 3 when the Hood River Eye Openers Lions Club begin setting up its fireworks display just west of the mouth of the Hood River.

As a result, the following areas will be closed or have limited access:

The Spit: The Port of Hood River will close the Spit area at noon on Thursday, July 3 until noon on Saturday, July 5.

Event Site Access to Sandbar: Access to the Sandbar from the Event Site will be closed at 7pm. As required by the Lions Club, the Sandbar will be closed at that time to all spectators and recreationists due to fireworks. Kiteboard launching and landing from the Event Site grass will not be permitted on July 4th.

Marina Beach and Marina Park: On the evening of July 4th, the sand area of the Marina Beach will closed at 7pm. Once the Marina Park parking areas are full, “Closed” signs will be placed at the entrance and additional vehicles will not be allowed into Marina Park.

General public use of fireworks is prohibited on Port property, including the Marina and Waterfront areas. This policy is strictly enforced. Those watching fireworks from the Marina and the Waterfront are reminded the show’s conclusion usually brings heavy traffic congestion. Patience and cooperation help to ease the pressure created by the large number of vehicles attempting to exit the area at the same time.

For more information, call the Port of Hood River at (541) 386-1645.

Pepi · Thu Jul 03, 14 11:12 pm

The "Spit" will be closed for the fireworks crews to set up, run and then breakdown their equipment for the event.

The "Sandbar" is requested to be cleared by 7pm on the 4th of July for safety and liability reasons. The CGKA, CGWA and the Port of HR are all working together to accommodate these needs and requirements from the Fireworks Engineers.

This accommodation prevents the typical 4th of July situation we have had since the sandbar creation, where all access to both the Spit and the Sandbar used to be shut off from July 3rd thru 5th.

This is a temporary restriction and should not negatively affect any kiters in any real manner.
Realistically, there are so many sailboats and powerboats that line up to anchor in front of the Event Site and Waterfront Park, that is is actually a good idea for all kiting and windsurfing use to end around that time anyways.

Happy 4th of July !!