Ceretto: Free tickets available for Wallenda walk

Earlier this month, Assemblyman John D. Ceretto sent a letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo urging him to make Nik Wallenda's highwire event free. On Tuesday, the Niagara Falls assemblyman was pleased to join the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in announcing that free vouchers will be available for Wallenda's June 15 tightrope walk across the Niagara gorge.

The vouchers will give tourists free access to the Terrapin Point area of Goat Island on Niagara Falls and will be available starting Friday, June 1, at 9 a.m.

"This is terrific news for Niagara Falls and the local tourism industry. I am pleased that the governor and the State Park's Department decided on making this event free to the public," Ceretto said. "The free vouchers will ensure that people from every income bracket can see the event live. Free access also follows the Free Niagara movement, which spurned Niagara Falls State Park becoming our nation's oldest state park."

Ceretto noted that Terrapin Point would only be open to 4,000 spectators during the Wallenda event. That's why he is encouraging people to sign-up online or call for vouchers on June 1.

"Don't miss your chance to receive free vouchers to this once-in-a-lifetime event. Sign up early on June 1," Ceretto said.

Free tickets for public access to the Terrapin Point area will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis for interested spectators who pre-order through the website www.walkthefalls.com. Interested parties will be limited to a maximum of five free vouchers per email address. There is no cash value for the voucher or wristband. People without computer access can call to request vouchers at 1-877-325-5787, ext. 337, beginning at 9 a.m. on June 1.

At the event, State Parks officials will prohibit wristband holders from bringing in coolers, bottles, cans or large bags. Spectators will be accommodated with lawn seating, and will be allowed to bring portable folding chairs or blankets into the Terrapin Point viewing area.