New Orleans is gearing up for one of its largest spectacles, the Super Bowl, by implementing meticulously devised security strategies. In response to a recent attack on New Year's Day, where a truck-ramming incident tragically occurred in the French Quarter, the city is determined to provide a secure environment for visitors arriving for Super Bowl festivities. The event is anticipated to attract about 125,000 visitors, starting February 5, with celebrations featuring artists like Post Malone and Diplo, culminating in the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles at the Caesars Superdome on February 9.
Despite the tragic events that unfolded at the start of the year, city officials, the NFL, and security agencies are confident in their preparedness, having spent over a year planning for this major event. Mayor LaToya Cantrell has assured the public that security will surpass measures seen in previous Super Bowls hosted by the city.
Leading the security efforts, thousands of state, federal, and local law enforcement officers will be on duty. While details are closely guarded, there are significant measures in place, including a strict no-drone policy around the Superdome and New Orleans downtown, enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration. Armed federal air marshals will be present at transportation hubs, watching for suspicious activities.
This extensive security operation, coordinated by federal agencies including the FBI and Secret Service, involves deploying rooftop snipers and SWAT vehicles to safeguard the Superdome and surrounding areas. A security perimeter, complete with blast barriers and X-ray machine-equipped checkpoints, has been established around the stadium to control access.
The Homeland Security Department, spearheaded by Eric DeLaune, is leading federal supervision of the event’s security, extending across neighborhoods beyond the stadium. In coordination with security forces, more than 100 bomb-sniffing dogs and a team of technicians meticulously scanned the Superdome, including its extensive seating, to prevent any threats.
Security efforts will extend through the Mardi Gras season, ensuring high safety levels across New Orleans. Phillip Constantin, an advisor with the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, emphasized that these measures make New Orleans exceptionally safe during this period.
Historically, vulnerabilities in areas like Bourbon Street have raised concerns, as demonstrated by lawsuits following the recent attack. However, city officials have reinforced the bollard system, bringing in additional physical barriers ahead of the Super Bowl. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry announced the creation of an 'enhanced security zone' along Bourbon Street to bolster these efforts, coupled with a National Guard deployment of 350 guardsmen.
In addition to these efforts, local laws allow for the presence of firearms in parts of the city, barring bars, which remains a controversial point. To prevent potential threats, authorities banned coolers and ice chests after discovering undetonated devices in the French Quarter. Additional safety measures include required bag checks for those entering the enhanced security zone.
The Superdome's owners have engaged Dataminr, a New York-based firm employing artificial intelligence to monitor potential threats. This technology captures and analyzes data from various sources, providing real-time insights to help manage crowd safety and alert officials to any emerging situations.
Moreover, the city's preparedness extends to public involvement through the NOLA Ready Public Safety App, encouraging visitors to report suspicious activities and receive timely updates. With these comprehensive plans in place, New Orleans aims to ensure that the Super Bowl is a safe and memorable event for all attendees.
Jack Brook from the Associated Press contributed to this report. Track ongoing updates on Jack’s social media platform X: @jack_brook96.
