Traffic light so far for Fort Carson's fireworks celebration

Maybe it's the storm clouds, or maybe it's the prospect of passing through searches and military checkpoints to celebrate freedom, but traffic's been light so far today for the 4th of July celebration at Fort Carson.

The base opened its annual celebration to the public after the city of Colorado Springs canceled its July 4 events because budgetary woes. Fort Carson officials were expecting in the neighborhood of 10,000 people, about a third larger than the normal turnout of 7,000.

Traffic was flowing smoothly at Gate 1, off Colorado Highway 115, through 5:30 p.m., though officials warned there could be tie-ups closer to the 8 p.m. performance by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, which will be followed by the fireworks display. All vehicles not registered with Fort Carson are being searched.

While many of the attendees were military families who watch the fireworks at Carson every year, there were some first-time visitors who normally go to Memorial Park. They didn't seem to mind the extra security.

"I just feel good being around the troops, to celebrate the troops," said Kristin Goode.

"A lot of people running around there are so disruptive," Dan Green said of the Memorial Park celebration. "They don't have any respect for anything."

"I usually sit by my house and watch them because I've got a great view," said Hannah Moss. While she is disappointed the city celebration was canceled, she was happy to be at Fort Carson, and the security wasn't a hassle.

"The security we can get out here at Fort Carson, the city can't afford it," Moss said.

Visitors who don't have a military registration decal on their car can use gates 1, 4 and 20. Gate 1 is Fort Carsons main gate and is located just off of State Highway 115. Gate 4, the B Street gate, is off South Academy Boulevard. Gate 20 is the closest to Fountain and is accessible from nearby Highway 85/87 and Interstate 25.

Visitors must show a government-issued ID, vehicle registration, proof of insurance and be prepared for a vehicle search at the gate.
Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged. Visitors will be directed to a parking area to hitch a ride on a shuttle bus to the posts Ironhorse Park.

Banned items include pets, glass bottles and firearms.