NCJ Number
210181
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 3 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2005 Pages: 22-26
Date Published
May 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the security features and procedures deployed in Jacksonville, FL, for Super Bowl XXXIX, which was held on Sunday, February 5, 2005.
Abstract
Fifty law enforcement agencies were involved in the security effort, along with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the North American Air Defense Command, and the 44th Civil Support Team of the Florida National Guard. The latter unit is composed of chemical, biological, and radiological specialists. The main feature of the security system was a $500,000 mobile command center, which had the capability of spotting a single fan throwing a beer cup from the stands. With the added capability of the E-Sponder System and the latest software by Microsoft, the security system was equipped with state-of-the-art technology. E-Sponder gave city officials an overview of 37 Super Bowl-related venues, including concerts and other gatherings. An additional security issue was posed when six cruise liners were brought in to river moorings to become floating hotels when regular city hotel accommodations became full. Steps were taken to ensure that there was nothing on the ships to pose a danger to residents or the city. Much of the inconvenience of security for those attending the game was relieved through an extensive public information campaign that announced the stadium opening time and encouraged attendees to come early in the day. Mass evacuation plans for all venues had been planned in the event of a significant threat or attack. There were no significant security events or identified threats, and no major complications arose because of the security measures implemented.