Bag policies are in place at all events in addition to open and concealed carry of firearms being prohibited.
SAN ANTONIO — As college basketball fans from across the nation are set to flood San Antonio for the men’s Final Four, law enforcement and event organizers have been preparing safety plans over the past year.
More than 100,000 people are expected to visit the Alamo City, taking part in a wide variety of Final Four festivities, including live music, fan fest, tailgate parties and of course the games.
“We’re working hand-in-hand with SAPD so there will be a combination of law enforcement officers around the entire footprint as well as private security,” said Elena Wells, executive director of the San Antonio Local Organizing Committee.
From the Alamodome, to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center to Hemisfair and beyond, Final Four events are taking place throughout downtown and the nearby surrounding area.
An increased police presence involving multiple agencies will be apparent Friday through Monday.
“In light of the tragic events that have occurred around the country recently, public safety is probably first and foremost on a lot of people’s minds,” said San Antonio Police Chief William McManus.
McManus is reminded of the New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans that left 14 people dead and dozens injured. He stressed vehicle intrusion was one of SAPD’s primary concerns heading into the MLK March as is the case for the Final Four.
“We’ve taken steps again to fill any gaps where vehicles may be able to enter an area where there’s people at an event and hopefully we’ll have the same success this time around with NCAA,” McManus said.
At the latest tabletop meeting held at the convention center, McManus said just under 200 people attended of whom mostly came from law enforcement agencies.
While police will be ready to respond at a moments notice, McManus urges everyone to keep vigilant and alert police if you see anything suspicious.
A clear bag policy is in place for those accessing the Final Four events with exceptions for diaper and bags deemed medically necessary. Non-clear bags that meet a certain size will be allowed.
Open and concealed carry of firearms is prohibited as well
“Metal detectors will be at every event. Anyone attending will be required to walk through a metal detector,” McManus said.
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