Groton — City police announced that Thames Street and portions of Monument Street and Park Avenue will be closed to motor vehicles from 6 p.m. until the conclusion of the Sailfest fireworks on Saturday. Police said this is to allow for pedestrians to walk about safely.

The Groton/New London fireworks display will take place on the Thames River opposite New London City Pier about 9:20 p.m., police said in a news release.

Parking is not permitted on Thames Street beginning at 8 a.m., and on surrounding streets beginning at 2 p.m. “Vehicles in violation will be towed and stored at the owner’s expense,” police said in the news release.

Police said intersecting streets to Thames Street between Bridge and Allen streets will be barricaded about 6 p.m.

Police also reminded residents that it is illegal “to utilize an item to obstruct City roadways (ex. orange cone) to reserve parking spaces for a houseguest during this event.”

“We realize that this presents an inconvenience for our residents,” police said. “However, in the interest of Public Safety, we appreciate your cooperation. We remind everyone that the discharge of any fireworks by an individual or group without a State Permit is a violation of law and any such violations observed by members of this Department will be acted upon appropriately.”

Police said anyone with questions can contact the police department at (860) 445-2451.