Tucson is bracing itself as the Arizona Wildcats head to the Final Four, with law enforcement preparing for potential crowd disturbances.
“Saturday evening, you will see enhanced law enforcement presence both on University Boulevard, Congress, and Fourth Avenue,” said Tucson Police Department Capt. Lauren Pettey.
Pettey is in charge of NCAA safety planning. She added that officers will be equipped with riot gear should the situation escalate.
Enhanced Security Measures
The increased security is a response to past incidents of unrest. Violent riots occurred downtown in 2001 after Arizona’s loss to Duke in the national title game, and again in 2014 following the Wildcats’ Elite Eight loss to Wisconsin.
Previous fan frustration manifested in street congregations, car fires, and objects being thrown at officers.
Local Businesses Prepare
Bar and restaurant owners are mindful of the history of riots.
“We don’t need the police coming in with the sandbags or the tear gas, which we’ve seen in the past, but that was a long time ago, I mean, maybe it’s a little different climate here on University now – people are a little more chill,” said Jonathan Graham of Frog & Firkin.
Graham stated the bar is preparing for any eventuality. Entry will be reservation-only to manage capacity.
“Literally every employee I have working, all my security, and even the extra security that we get from the wild west, so we’re ready to go,” Graham said.
Traffic and Pedestrian Management
Tucson Police Department (TPD) will also implement traffic enforcement measures. This will begin on Saturday morning.
Meters on University will be covered in preparation for the street being barricaded a few hours before the game.
“We wanna ensure that all pedestrians and bicyclists that are in the area have the ability to mingle and go about University, Congress, and Fourth Avenue,” Pettey said.
University Advice
The University of Arizona’s Office of Public Safety and UAPD are also increasing safety measures before the game.
They are encouraging students to celebrate responsibly, to plan ahead, and to contact UAPD if they need assistance.