TRAFFIC PLAN JULY 4 2019

In Big Bear Lake  

The Traffic Management Plan was designed to help move vehicles along at a faster, more controlled pace. 

The plan involves limiting left-turns onto Big Bear Boulevard, while right-hand turns are encouraged.

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Thursday July 4, 2019 in Big Bear Lake, California, after dark, thousands of residents and Valley visitors will enjoy have a panoramic view of the traditional event sponsored by the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake at a cost of $70,000 plus, outstanding Barbeque and incredible Fireworks production displayed on Big Bear Lake. 

Celebrating Fireworks Watchers can once again enjoy exclusive viewing of choreographed, dazzling sights as pyrotechnics explodes in the night air and illuminates the shimmering lake water below. The patriotic music of KBHR 93.3 FM narrated by station owner Rick Herrick, is perfectly matched to the July 4th theme. 

The never to be duplicated, spectacular pyrotechnics by professionally-trained expert Andy Suhay trained by his father Skip Suhay), is a heart-felt gift of both the Suhays, for years.  

SEE: www.bigbearlake.net/etnews/fireworks-the-suhay-way-  ….is the highlight of the evening skies.  Many, many boats dot the waters of Big Bear Lake, throughout Thursday; which add to display of lights, seen from shore to shore. 

City of Big Bear Lake Mayor Randall Putz welcomes,

“As one of the top fireworks shows in Southern California, many visitors are drawn to Big Bear Lake for the 4th of July, and the resulting traffic requires special accommodation. The City of Big Bear Lake’s Traffic Management Plan, developed in conjunction with the local Big Bear Sheriff Department, the Big Bear Fire Department, CHP, and Caltrans, has evolved into an effective tool that minimizes congestion and wait times, while maximizing safety and access for emergency personnel.

While it may seem counterintuitive, allowing right-hand turns only onto Big Bear Boulevard within the vicinity of the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake BBQ & Fireworks production, plus traffic control at major intersections, actually moves vehicles along much quicker. We appreciate the visitors’ and residents’ support that makes this ‘Fireworks Spectacular over the Big Bear Lake’ possible, and especially appreciate everyone’s patience afterwards as we all make our way home safely.”

California Highway Patrol Arrowhead PIO Officer Christopher Carter, reports

the CHP Department located in Running Springs is anticipating a large number of visitors to the San Bernardino Mountains who will be traveling State Route 18, SR-330 and SR-38. 

Commander Lt. Mike Salinas and his Department are dedicated to providing the highest level of safety, service and security to all the mountain communities.  “In co-operation with the City of Big Bear Lake, Big Bear Sheriff Department, and Caltrans. we are instituting the same traffic plan as last year.”

When drivers follow the Traffic Management Plan (see Map above) and remain flexible, it works for everyone.  

We will deploy all safety personnel with additional CHP officers, to serve around the Big Bear Lake, focusing on the Fawnskin, North Shore Drive area.  Lastly, boat and vehicle traffic to and from all marinas will be held in place for about one hour after the conclusion of the fireworks show at Big Bear Lake.   

Caltrans District 8 Chief PIO Terri Kasinga, says “The Caltrans Crews are looking forward to a ‘safe traveling July 4^th weekend’ for everyone on the San Bernardino Mountains roads.”  Kasinga suggests to avoid delays on State Route 330, at the City Creek Bridge Solar Signal, use State Route 18 out of Lucerne Valley or State Route 38 out of Mentone.  That February 2019, storm-damaged area has been under a major repair by Caltrans.  The $3.3 million project began in April 2019 and is expected to be completed by the end of Summer 2020. 

All of the agencies ask …