The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) has rolled out two buses adorned with patriotic designs, ready to transport attendees to the Commonwealth Concert Series at Kirby Park. These buses, wrapped in red, white, and blue, commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
LCTA Executive Director Bob Fiume emphasized the significance of the Declaration’s words, saying, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” He further noted that providing transportation to those in need aligns with these principles.
Shuttle Service for Concertgoers
The vibrantly designed buses will be busy on Saturday, shuttling concertgoers as part of the free Commonwealth Concert Series celebrating the nation’s semiquincentennial. This event highlights Pennsylvania’s role in American history and features performances by Lady A, En Vogue, and Eddie Day & TNT.
Partnerships with the City of Wilkes-Barre and America250PA ensure effective transportation, with LCTA offering shuttles from key parking locations such as LCCC, Mohegan Sun, Misericordia University, and King’s College’s Betzler Field. Service will run from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with return trips available until midnight.
America250PA Executive Director Cassandra Coleman explained the convenience of the service: “LCTA is providing transportation to off-site out of city lots to be able to make it as easy as possible for folks to hop on the bus, take a ride down, get dropped off right at the gate, and then get right back on the bus and go back to their cars.”
Free Tickets and Parking
Concert tickets remain available at no cost, but attendees must secure them via america250pa.org to gain entry. Coleman advises checking the FAQ page for details on what to bring.
To facilitate access, metered parking and selected garages in Wilkes-Barre will be free on concert day. Additional parking is available at Wilkes University and King’s College lots.
Event Logistics and Road Closures
Concert preparations include specific traffic and access adjustments:
Park Restrictions: Kirby Park will experience parking limitations and restricted areas due to concert setup.
Boat Launch: Nesbitt Park Boat Launch will be closed from Friday 8 p.m. until Sunday 8 a.m.
Road Closures: Starting Saturday 8 a.m., Market Street and Northampton Street will be closed to vehicles, with pedestrian access limited to specific routes.
Local Officials Embrace the Celebration
Coleman, reflecting on her local roots, expressed excitement: “I’m thrilled to be able to bring this home, and to be able to celebrate here again at home.” Mayor George Brown encouraged exploration of downtown Wilkes-Barre, highlighting the entertainment lineup and local dining opportunities.
“Lady A’s going to sing my favorite song, ‘Bartender.’ And then we’re going to have En Vogue, Eddie Day Pashinski is going to be singing, bringing back the hits,” Brown enthused. “A great night, a lot of food, a lot of great entertainment.”
