[Chris Francis]
Super Bowl security is ramping up just nine days from kick off. More so this year because of the New Year’s Eve terrorist attack on Bourbon Street. The NFL said Thursday they have received “no credible threats” to this point but have also reassessed their plan in the wake of the attack.
Axios reported that a congressional delegation will visit the city next week to check out the arrangements by federal, state and local law enforcement. They will tour the site of the New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon St., the New Orleans convention center and the Superdome.
Beginning February 5th, two Enhanced Security Zones will be in place. One around the Superdome coordinated by the NFL and the Department of Homeland Security and one
in the French Quarter coordinated by local law enforcement with help from other agencies.
“There will be checkpoints that are set up at each entry to prevent and deter the introduction of any destructive explosive materials coolers and ice chest of any kind will be prohibited in our enhanced security zone“
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry also said bags bigger than a women’s clutch will be searched when entering the French Quarter. New Orleans police are using an “all hands on deck” approach that they admit will strain resources but they believe they will be ready.
“We’re going to have an incredible Super Bowl we’re going to have a great and fun time and then followed by Marty Gras this is a safe city we’ve had a tragic event and we will never forget what happened here but we know and are confident that our plans are good”
NFL security chief Cathy Lanier also briefed reporters this week saying “Thousands of law enforcement officers will be deployed over Super Bowl weekend.. I think the biggest thing that you’ll see that’s different following the attacks is just a lot more visible law enforcement presence.”
The city is expecting more than 100,000 visitors to begin arriving next week. The NFL says they are still prepared to adapt their plan should something change between now and game day.
For Straight Arrow News, I’m Chris Francis.