BP had stepped forward to pay for an annual July...

BP had stepped forward to pay for an annual July Fourth display in Colorado back in December, five months before the start of its oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. (July 3, 2004) Credit: Newsday/Thomas A. Ferrara

The fireworks display in the city of Durango will go on thanks to embattled oil giant BP.

The company stepped forward to pay for the annual July Fourth display back in December, five months before the start of its oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The display typically costs $15,000 and city officials were poised to cancel it because of a budget crunch. But representatives of BP’s office in southwestern Colorado surprised the council by announcing the company would pick up the tab.

Company spokesman Curtis Thomas says BP knows how important  the celebration is to the community and didn’t want it to be lost. He says BP hasn’t asked for any advertising in exchange for its donation.

BP drills for natural gas in Colorado.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Michael A. Rupolo Sr.

Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Michael A. Rupolo Sr.

Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

Subscribe

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

SUBSCRIBESALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME