Gelman Optimistic About Fireworks

ANN ARBOR MAY 25 1994

Gelman optimistic about fireworks

Gelman Sciences and Ann Arbor officials' continue to talk about a proposal for fireworks July 3 near Ann Arbor’s landfill on the southeast side and met again Tuesday to hash out final details about parking and other plans.

Though Ann Arbor City Council approval still is needed, Gelman officials are optimistic that the show will go on. The proposal is on the agenda for the City Council’s June 6 meeting.

“It’s a living project,” said Bob Skuggen of Gelman. “We update it as we go along.”

The pieces seem to be falling into place.

Wamer-Lambert/Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Research Division, one of Ann Arbor’s largest employers, has signed on with Gelman as a co-sponsor. And organizers received more good news recently when the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said DNR permission is not needed to launch fireworks from the landfill.

Tuesday, officials from Gelman, the Jaycees and the city met to discuss parking in and around Swift Run Park, which is adjacent to the landfill at Ellsworth and Platt roads. Gelman officials also have said they are trying to relieve congestion around the landfill and park by talking with Briarwood Mall and Showcase Cinemas to see whether people might be able to watch fireworks from those sites.

Skuggen said organizers agreed to charge $5 for parking at the land-fill/Swift Run site.

Skuggen also said that Gelman would contact the residents in the area who have complained about the event to address their concerns.