As the nation gears up to celebrate the Fourth of July, Jefferson Parish has announced a series of closures and service adjustments for the holiday. According to a press release from Jefferson Parish, all government offices, Head Start Centers operated by the Jefferson Community Action Programs, and the East and West Bank American Job Centers will not be operating today, July 4. Residents of unincorporated areas and the Town of Jean Lafitte should note that curbside garbage collection will also be suspended on Independence Day with no make-up day; the next scheduled pickup is Tuesday, July 8.
The Parish Landfill, along with all four drop-off sites, are set to close on the Fourth, though they will quickly resume normal operations the following day. Those looking to responsibly discard their recyclables will have to wait a tad longer; the recycling program at 700 David Drive in Metairie and 6440 Lapalco Boulevard in Marrero is shuttered on Saturday, resuming on July 12 with new, morning operating hours anticipated to reduce the risk of heat exposure.
For the animal lovers and park-goers, the Jefferson Protection and Animal Welfare Services (JPAWS) and Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation (JPRD) will remain closed on Independence Day, bar Lafreniere Park which is open until 6 p.m. Jefferson Parish Transit will be running a modified Saturday service on Friday, but things should return to normal the next day.
In light of the extreme heat, the Jefferson Parish Library has proactively adjusted its hours to offer respite from the scorching temperatures. The River Ridge Library and the Terrytown Library will be open on July 4 from 10 a.m. until the 8 p.m. trying to provide a cool haven for those in need. These extended hours will continue into Saturday. Meanwhile, all other Library branches are taking a day off on Friday only to swing open their doors for regular hours on Saturday.
Residents have been urged to stay vigilant against heat-related illnesses by adopting preventive measures including dressing in lightweight clothes, staying hydrated, applying sunscreen, and limiting outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. The well-being of pets is also a concern, with authorities advising on ways to protect animals from the searing heat, such as checking pavement temperatures before walks, avoiding peak heat hours, and keeping pets well-hydrated.
