Jefferson Street Bridge in Rockford closing for Independence Day events

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Jefferson Street Bridge will be closed for nearly a day and a half as Rockford prepares for its annual 4th of July celebration.

This year, the fireworks display will be set off from the bridge on Friday night at 9:30 p.m., necessitating its closure starting at 12 p.m. on Thursday.

Authorities said the bridge will remain closed until the fireworks show is cleaned up.

According to the City of Rockford, the annual 4th of July Parade will kick off at 4:40 p.m. on Friday, forming at 7th Street and 6th Avenue, proceeding north on 7th Street to E. State Street, west on State Street to Wyman Street, and disbanding at Church Street.

Street closures will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, and all streets will be closed at 3 p.m.

Viewing of the fireworks show is permitted on the two northern lanes of the Chestnut Street Bridge and the State Street Bridge, after the parade.

Rockford’s “Celebration of Freedom” fireworks show will be broadcast live on WQRF FOX 39 at 9:00 p.m. on Friday, July 4th, and streamed live on MyStateline.com.