By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

PELHAM—Wondering why there were fireworks over Pelham on Wednesday, June 4? The city was testing viewing sites and preparing for its first ever fireworks show on July 3 in celebration of Independence Day.

“Since we’ve never had (a fireworks show) at the park ever, we need to know what our capabilities are,” Pelham Mayor Gary Waters said.

Pyro Productions, Inc., shot fireworks of various strengths off of the dam at Double Oak Lake in Oak Mountain State Park, where the July 3 show will be held. Spotters manned locations around the city to determine possible viewing locations.

“We had spotters at 10 places,” Waters said, naming Pelham High School, Valley Intermediate School, Heart of Dixie Harley-Davidson, the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena, Peavine Falls overlook and the Alabama Wildlife Center park as a few of the locations. “It’s just as important to tell folks where not to go (as where to go).”

Waters confirmed the fireworks were best seen from within Oak Mountain State Park, especially anywhere along the boat rental to the beach at Double Oak Lake.

Pelham’s July 3 fireworks display will accompany a larger celebration hosted by the park in honor of the 75th anniversary of Alabama State Parks. During a May 19 City Council meeting, Waters said the festivities will include “food, beverage and entertainment.”

Oak Mountain State Park is planning to charge the regular admission fee of $3 for adults, $1 for children six to 11 years old and $1 for anyone age 62 and older. However, Waters said he has asked the park to consider a discounted rate, or a flat rate for a car rather than individual admissions.

“I’ve already asked them about (a discounted rate), but I haven’t heard back yet,” Waters said. “That’s not a decision up to the city.”

Waters also acknowledged parking concerns and said the park is used to dealing with heavy traffic around holiday times, but he does “encourage people to carpool.”

“I’m an optimist, I’m hoping this goes well,” Waters said. “But, you never know, we’ll only know after our first fireworks show.”