Kirby Lake Park to close for the Fourth of July

The city of Abilene is being proactive in preventing fires by closing Kirby Lake Park ahead of the Fourth of July evening celebrations, according to the city.

While there is no official burn ban in place for Taylor County, Kirby Lake Park will close on July Fourth at 6 p.m. "to minimize the risk of wildfires and other potential hazards from fireworks during the Independence Day celebration," according to a recent city of Abilene release.

Violators face potential fine

The closure of Kirby Lake Park is a move by Abilene Marshals to "concentrate efforts in the Lake Fort Phantom Hill area, which traditionally sees heavy traffic and increased potential for wildfires and other hazards over the July 4th holiday," according to the city press release.

The Abilene Police Department will also conduct a drive through of the park after its closure "to ensure all individuals have left the area." Officers will then place road barriers up after the patrol to prevent anyone from entering the park.

Anyone who remains at Kirby Lake beyond 6 p.m. could face a $125 fine for violating the park curfew.

The city of Abilene "would also like to remind residents that possessing open fireworks or using fireworks inside the city limits is prohibited and may result in confiscating the fireworks and a fine, per City ordinance," according to the press release.

Additionally, it could mean a class C misdemeanor and $500 fine if fireworks are used on a Taylor County road, despite the lack of a burn ban.

Kirby Lake Park will reopen at 5:30 a.m. July 5.

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