Although the Fourth of July is still more than two months away, interest in celebratory fireworks may be a bit higher than usual this year in Lexington. The launching of the pyro-technics returns to a traditional location this summer.
In making the announcement not far from the R.J. Corman Railroad launch site, Mayor Linda Gorton said “Lexington cares a lot about fireworks.” “We want them to be big, to light up the sky, and to take our breath away, right?” asked Gorton.
Last year’s fireworks show off the top of Lexington’s financial center brought less than enthusiastic reviews from some viewers. Downtown Lexington Partnership Board Chair Steve Grossman says a good fireworks show is part of the formula to reap economic benefits at nearby businesses. “The actual size of the fireworks that they can use at this location are significantly than what they were able to do on top of the building for safety reasons,” said Grossman.
R.J. Corman Railroad Group CEO Ed Quinn said the same pad as that used in years past will be the launch site this July. “After last year there was some general disappointment with the fireworks in the community and I know they are building the park out and I think for the next few years we could probably accommodate and help out. Whether it moves to the park or not, I don’t know. But this time, we’re excited to do it,” noted Quinn.
This will be the first time in four years, fireworks will be set off from the railroad property. Prior to last year’s launch off the financial center, the show originated near the Arboretum for two years.