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Crowds pack lakefront for annual fireworks celebration

Wednesday, July 04, 2007

Team Coverage

July 3, 2007 (WLS) -- An estimated one million people watched the fireworks display at Grant Park Tuesday night. To deal with the crowds, Chicago police have beefed up security with more officers and cameras.

Tourists from across the globe came down to the lakefront to get an aerial view of this lakefront extravaganza.

Security was tight Tuesday night as the Chicago Police patrolled the streets and water but a major concern was the mass exodus from the lakefront.

"We estimate a million people down here for the fireworks show and then those people all want to leave at the same time. We ask people to be patient and we'll get them out of there as soon as possible," said Chicago Police Superintendent Phil Cline before Tuesday's performance.

Many people got to the lakefront early to grab a great seat for the show. Justin Diamond got to Grant Park at 7 a.m.

"We had to get here early to rope off our spot," said Diamond.

Diamond and his friends brought along a popular Chicago summertime game, Cornhole, to kill time.

To deal with the crowds, Chicago police have beefed up security with more officers and cameras.

"We have someone in our office, as well as 911 monitoring those cameras all the time to look for unusual activity and suspicious behavior and we will act appropriately," said Dep. Chief Jim Keating, Chicago Police.

There is no specific threat against Chicago, but residents are asked to stay alert.

"That's the most important thing-- people should be paying attention," said Megan McDonald, Mayor's Office of Special Events."We always try during the Taste of Chicago to make sure that everybody has the safest, most secure evening to enjoy the fireworks and we work really closely with the police department, fire department and office of communications to make sure that happens."

Despite the concerns, revelers said they plan to just enjoy the day -- and the show.

"I've been watching TV, I know there are concerns, there's always a chance. But the police are doing everything you can, so we might as well make the most of it," said Jean Anderson.

"I don't think there will be problems with security. We're here enjoying the city to its fullest," said Kudus Onishemoh.

Revelers are urged to use public transit. The CTA and Metra trains are stepping up security for the night and will be inspecting bags.

Alcohol is not allowed at Grant Park.

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