The Fourth of July fireworks won’t take place in downtown Williamsport, as city officials work with event organizers to find another suitable location in Lycoming County where a celebration can be held on the nation’s 250th birthday.

Mayor Derek Slaughter confirmed Wednesday that it was with “deep regret” the fireworks celebration won’t take place downtown.

“This decision was not made lightly,” Slaughter said on a Facebook post. “As everyone is aware, this year’s holiday falls on a Saturday and coincides with the 250th anniversary of the celebration of our nation,” he stated.

These factors would require a significantly increased level of staffing and coordination to ensure a safe and successful event, he noted.

“Unfortunately, due to a variety of constraints, we will not have a complement of public safety personnel available to meet those heightened needs,” he said.

He continued: “The safety of our residents, visitors, and first responders must always remain our top priority. After careful evaluation and consultation with our public safety officials, we determined that proceeding with the downtown fireworks display would not allow us to uphold the level of safety our community deserves,” he stated.

The city has been actively working with event organizers to explore potential alternative locations throughout Lycoming County where celebrations may still be held safely, he noted.

“We are hopeful that additional details will be shared in the future,” he said.

The tradition of downtown fireworks and patriotic music on radio accompanying the fireworks has not been lost on the mayor.

“We understand how meaningful this tradition is — especially during such a historic year — and we share in the disappointment this news may bring,” he said. “We appreciate the community’s understanding and continued support as we make decisions guided by safety and responsibility,” he said.