Over 50 events coming to Atlanta this weekend: How police plan to keep you safe
Atlanta host over 50 Labor Day weekend events
Atlanta officials outlined safety plans for over 50 events across the city during Labor Day weekend.
ATLANTA - Atlanta police and city leaders are launching an all-hands-on-deck safety initiative across Atlanta to maintain order as massive holiday crowds arrive for more than 50 events.
Atlanta holiday security
What we know:
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens announced that the city is preparing for one of its busiest stretches of the year. Over 50 planned events are taking place throughout the area, including Dragon Con, Atlanta Black Pride, a WWE event at State Farm Arena, the AFLAC Kickoff Game between Auburn and Baylor at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Morehouse-Clark Atlanta Classic, the Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival, and Taste of Soul Atlanta.
Assistant Chief Charles Hampton Jr. said officers will be stationed in entertainment districts, neighborhoods, and parks. The Atlanta Police Department is using mounted horse patrols and all-terrain vehicles to cover high-traffic areas.
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City of Atlanta talks Labor Day safety
Atlanta police are increasing security across the city as a packed Labor Day weekend brings thousands of visitors downtown for conventions, festivals, football and other events. Mayor Andre Dickens spoke about safety during Labor Day during a news conference on Friday morning.
Atlanta BeltLine safety
The backstory:
Following recent incidents along the Atlanta BeltLine, community members raised concerns regarding safety on the popular trail network. Atlanta BeltLine CEO Clyde Higgs acknowledged those concerns and confirmed a heavily increased presence of APD’s PathForce officers to support residents and holiday visitors.
PathForce patrols complement previous security investments along the trail system. The main line trail of the BeltLine now features lighting and security cameras spaced approximately every 90 feet, along with an Atlanta BeltLine Ambassadors force made up of community officers monitoring the area.
Extra officers, SWAT teams deployed
What they're saying:
Police officials emphasized that they are fully prepared to handle the holiday influx.
"We expect thousands of people to come and enjoy these events but our message today is simple, come out and have a good time and know that the Atlanta Police Department will either meet you there or beat you there," Hampton said.
Crime prevention effort
What we don't know:
Officials have not specified the total number of officers deployed or provided exact force counts for specific events. Police urge anyone who observes suspicious activity to report it immediately.