New traffic patterns and parking restrictions go into effect for this year’s Fourth of July celebration in Mathews County.
Sheriff Mark Barrick said the annual event has grown significantly over the past few years, increasing safety concerns for those attending the fireworks display and the deputies providing traffic control.
He said that there had been several incidents in which vehicles had to slam on brakes to avoid hitting children who were crossing the road to  cars after the fireworks ended. In addition, he said, it took 40 minutes last year to empty the high school and parks and recreation parking lots because of the logjam.
“It’s become a big event,” said Barrick, “and because of the sheer size of it and the safety of everyone involved, we’re asking that people abide by the signage, and we’re encouraging people to use the bus shuttle.”
The shuttle will run from Thomas Hunter Middle School, through the Court House, to the bus ...