EAST PEORIA, Ill. – The city of East Peoria is enhancing security measures for Choose Greater Peoria Red, White, and BOOM Friday night.
Police Chief David Catton says a security perimeter will be in effect at Riverfront Park throughout the day. He says while there is no specific threat to the event, more precautions are being taken.
“It is a different climate we’re in and we have seen an increase in domestic attacks, terrorist attacks, inside of the United States,” Catton said. “So we have definitely decided that we definitely want to step up our game and take on any sort of security measure we can.”
Catton says that includes setting up concrete barriers around Riverfront Park to minimize the threat of vehicle attacks. He says checkpoints will also be set up at the park, with those being the only way to enter and exit.
Bass Pro Drive will be closed all day long, but Catton says businesses can still be accessed through Riverside Drive and River Road.
Other reminders Catton shared is that people bringing coolers should have time secure and on their person at all times, otherwise they will be confiscated. He says people can bring backpacks and non-alcoholic drinks; but grills, drones, laser-pointers, open flames, and fireworks are prohibited. Canopies are allowed, but Catton is asking people to take them down before the fireworks show starts.
After the fireworks are complete, Catton says most people will exit through Camp or West Washington Streets.
Catton says the night will be successful if everyone makes it home safely.
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