Newark City officials announced that the Newark Police Division is stepping up security efforts and closing several streets to accommodate the upcoming Portuguese Festival and other activities to be held Friday, June 8th to Sunday, June 10th, 2018 in the City’s East Ward.
According to a statement released by police, in an effort to ensure the safety of Festival-goers, the Newark Police Division will deploy both uniformed and plainclothes officers.
Officials say police will also utilize mobile surveillance cameras and will operate security checkpoints around the perimeter of the festival to ensure that no bags, umbrellas, bottles or backpacks are allowed.
“We look forward to seeing our residents and visitors enjoy this weekend’s Portuguese Feast and all that the City of Newark has to offer,” Director Ambrose said. “We request that everyone celebrate safely and responsibly. We encourage all participants to download the Newark Police Division App onto their cell phones to report crimes or other suspicious activities. Your partnership is invaluable in helping us to keep Newark safe.”
Attendees are asked to abide by the national event safety awareness watchwords: “If you see something, say something.”
**STREET CLOSURE INFORMATION**
Due to the traffic congestion resulting from this event, we are encouraging those traveling in the area to allow for extra time and, if not attending the event, plan an alternative route.
Starting at 8 a.m., Friday, June 8th through Sunday, June 10, 2018, the Peter Francisco Park Area will be closed.
Officials say, at 5 p.m. on Friday, this area will be expanded to include:
South of Market Street and North of Lafayette Street
West of Jefferson Street and East of New Jersey Railroad Avenue Friday from 5 p.m. to midnight.Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
**Niagra Street between Ferry Street and Paterson Street**
Friday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Saturday from 12 p.m, to 1 a.m.
Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
**Ferry Street between Chambers and Clover streets**
Friday from 5 p.m. to midnight
Saturday from 3 p.m. to midnight
Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
**Foot Race: Sunday, June 10, 2018,**
Ferry Street will be closed from Magazine and New Jersey Railroad Avenue between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
During the Foot Race the following additional streets will be closed from approximately 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Lafayette Street and Wilson Avenue
Wilson Avenue to Lang Street
Lang Street to Wilson Avenue
New York Avenue to Jabez Street
Jabez Street to Rome Street
Rome Street to St. Charles Street
St Charles to Ferry Street
**Parade: Sunday, June 10, 2018,**
Ferry Street will be closed from Prospect Street to St. Charles Street 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.