SALT LAKE CITY — With thousands descending upon Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend, officials want to ensure it will be a safe environment for everyone looking to enjoy the festivities.
On Tuesday, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, along with Chief of Police Mike Brown and fire department Capt. Shaun Mumedy, offered up details on the security plan created for this weekend's events.
Considering the magnitude of the event, Mendenhall said planning for All-Star Weekend has taken months. Salt Lake City last hosted the game in 1993, and it's only become bigger in the three decades since.
Over 100,000 people are expected to arrive in Utah over the next few days to attend one or more All-Star-related activities.
Utahns like T.J. Barrowes have mixed feelings about what the weekend will bring.
"It could go one of two ways," said Barrowes, "We could either have a huge great time here in Salt Lake and support our local businesses, or you know, 100,000 people and anything could go wrong."
Chief Brown said police officers will be strategically placed around the city to protect residents, but added his biggest piece of advice for residents and visitors is if they see something to say something.
"Although we have extra officers on the ground, we need everyone in our community to help us," said Brown, "Community safety starts right there with our community, the people who live and work and visit downtown."
Utah local Emioi Gates hopes the city is ready for the influx of people and is also excited to show visitors what Salt Lake City has to offer.
“I think bringing more people into a community, there’s always going to be safety concerns for people coming in, but I think overall as long as we’re prepared for it I think it’ll be a great weekend and I think it’ll be fun for everyone.”
Residents are being asked to prepare for several road closures around the city, especially near Vivint Arena and the Salt Palace Convention Center.
“All-Star Weekend has taken months of coordination and planning, and I just know it’s going to be amazing," said Mendenhall. "But, our primary goal is for our residents and visitors to enjoy this weekend safely.”
