Police put experience into play for Super Bowl aftermath
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City of Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Michael Huss, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Assitant Chief William Bochter and police Chief Nathan Harper address the media concerning security and changes in the traffic patterns for next Sunday during the Super Bowl.
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Pittsburgh police, who tamed rowdy crowds in Oakland and the South Side after the Steelers' 2009 Super Bowl win, will shut down those trouble spots this year about an hour before the game ends, officials said Tuesday, warning revelers that they won't tolerate violence or vandalism -- win or lose.
More than 400 extra officers from the city, Allegheny County and other departments will be on hand to keep order amid any post-game celebrations, police Chief Nate Harper said in rolling out Sunday night's security plans. Officers will break up crowds, tag and tow illegally parked cars, and stop drunken drivers.
"We will be out in force to make sure we do have a safe environment for all to enjoy," the chief said.
Police hope to temper the crowds this year by imposing parking and traffic restrictions ahead of the revelry. Tens of thousands of people flooded the streets of Oakland and the South Side after the Steelers' sixth Super Bowl victory. Police did not enforce such a traffic plan and were forced to shut down some streets to accommodate the crowds. Officers worked through the night to clear the streets of happy fans after that celebration, which ended in about 100 arrests and roughly $150,000 in property damage by fans who flipped cars, torched couches and broke windows.
"We want to ask fans of our team not to partake in that activity this coming Sunday," Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said.
With the street closures, which will begin at 9 p.m., police aim to protect fans who spill into the streets as well as keep them moving:
• In Oakland, Forbes Avenue from McKee Place to Bigelow Boulevard will close to vehicular traffic. Parking will be barred starting at 4 p.m. on side streets from Sennott Street to Fifth Avenue.
• On the South Side, East Carson Street between 10th and 22nd streets will shut down at the same time, police said. There will be no parking on East Carson and side streets. Signs will be posted and barricades in place.
First Published February 2, 2011 12:00 am
