Super Bowl LIX: New Orleans implements unprecedented security measures
As New Orleans prepares to host Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, authorities have implemented a comprehensive security strategy to ensure the safety of the estimated 73,000 attendees and the broader community.
This year’s event is particularly significant, as President Donald Trump is set to attend, marking the first time a sitting president will be present at a Super Bowl. While previous presidents like Ronald Reagan have performed the pre-game coin toss from the White House, no sitting president has ever attended the event.
“Security measures have been further enhanced this year, given that this will be the first time a sitting president of the United States will attend the event,” Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement.
Enhanced Law Enforcement Presence
According to the New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, the 11th Super Bowl hosted by New Orleans on Sunday, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, is projected to attract well over 100,000 visitors.
In response to the tragic New Year's Day truck attack on Bourbon Street, which resulted in 14 fatalities and numerous injuries, local and federal agencies have intensified security measures. The New Orleans Police Department, in collaboration with federal partners, has increased patrols and visibility throughout the city. Additionally, 300 National Guard troops and 200 Louisiana State Police officers have been deployed to bolster security efforts.
Although the incident prompted officials to reassess security measures for the game and related events, Cathy Lanier, the NFL's chief security officer, assured Ceasars Superdome would remain fully protected.
“I’m confident the safest place this weekend will be under the security umbrella we have in place around [the Superdome],” Lanier explained at the Super Bowl kickoff news conference. “We have reviewed, and re-reviewed, all the events of January 1.”
Advanced Security Technologies
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has assessed this year’s Super Bowl as a Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) Level 1 event, the highest classification level of public safety risk.
Authorities are deploying cutting-edge security technologies to safeguard the Superdome and its surroundings. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) conducted physical and cybersecurity vulnerability assessments before the event. CISA will deploy advisors and emergency communications coordinators on game day to support local law enforcement and private partners, ensuring robust communication and rapid response capabilities.
According to the DHS, in addition to these measures, the Superdome will utilize advanced video surveillance systems equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.
These systems are designed to monitor crowd behavior in real-time, identifying potential security threats and enabling rapid response. Generative AI will be used to produce memos alerting Superdome officials of trending patterns, such as an influx of posts showing swelling crowds or other public disturbances as they unfold.
ASM Global, the owner of the Superdome, has partnered with Dataminr, an AI firm based in New York, to monitor potential and emerging threats in real time.
According to Robert Crowley, Dataminr’s chief security officer, the company will utilize over a million public data sources in 150 languages, ranging from social media and dark web forums to traffic cameras.
Crowley told the Associated Press, “It's about piecing together various bits of information to form a comprehensive view of recent events. The quicker you understand what's happening, the faster you can respond effectively.”
Additionally, visitors can report suspicious activities and receive security updates through the city's NOLA Ready Public Safety App. The app provides real-time updates on essential city service information, enabling users to make informed decisions and take prompt action. Users can also access live, interactive maps showing service updates and more.
K9 units trained in detecting explosives and firearms will be also deployed, adding an extra layer of security.
No-Drone Zone
In preparation for the game, the FAA designated the Caesars Superdome and surrounding areas as a “No Drone Zone.” A temporary flight restriction (TFR) will be enforced on game day, restricting drone activity within 1.5 nautical miles of the stadium starting at 1:30 p.m. CST and expanding to 30 nautical miles from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. CST. Additionally, pre-game restrictions will be around Lafayette Square from February 3-8. The FAA warns that violations could result in drone confiscation, fines up to $75,000, or criminal prosecution. These measures are part of the broader security efforts to ensure public safety during the event.
Public Engagement and Safety Protocols
In the days before the Super Bowl, the French Quarter has been designated an enhanced security zone. Visitors will encounter bag checks at checkpoints, especially for bags larger than 4.5 by 6.5 inches. Those refusing searches will be denied entry to the area.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. DHS’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign encourages attendees and residents to take proactive action to ensure collective safety.
With these comprehensive measures in place, officials emphasize they are confident in providing a secure environment for all Super Bowl LIX festivities. As Mayor LaToya Cantrell affirmed at a press conference, “We know we’re safer than we've ever been before.”
