City of Rochester
News Release
(Monday, March 5, 2018) – The City of Rochester will implement increased security measures for special events, parades and large gatherings, beginning with this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17. Parade-goers should expect to see additional police presence and plan additional time for event arrival and departure as some streets that have been open to intermittent traffic in the past will now be closed for the duration of the parade.
“The City of Rochester prides itself on its world-class festivals and special events that draw hundreds of thousands of people each year,” Mayor Lovely A. Warren said. “We want everyone to feel safe and to be safe while they are attending city events and that is why we are providing additional security measures.”
The Rochester Fire Department is expanding its medical capabilities so it can better respond to emergencies and the Rochester Police and Fire Departments are working with the Rochester Joint Terrorism Task Force to enhance the monitoring and use of cameras and analytics.
The new protocols to bolster public safety at special events were developed by a cross-departmental team led by Fire Chief John Schreiber. The team will continue to meet on a regular basis to review and implement further changes.
“At the end of the day, safety is everyone’s responsibility, and, by continuing to work together, I know that we will have a fun and safe festival season,” said Mayor Warren.
No specific or credible threats have been received for any City events. The City is recommending that festival-goers employ the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s “If you see something, say something” philosophy and report any suspicious activity they observe by calling 911.
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News Media: For more information, contact Press Officer
Jessica Alaimo at 428-7135.