CPD ramps up security, lays out Wrigleyville plans ahead of Game 3

FOX 32 NEWS - On a dreary and chilly Wednesday night, a small contingent of cops arrived for duty at Clark and Addison with security concerns at a minimum.

But they will have a lot of company Friday night when the neighborhood will be packed like it was last weekend when the Cubs punched their ticket to the World Series.

Chicago Police said there will be 1000 law enforcement officers from various agencies patrolling around the ball park.

“There'll be more resources than you saw last weekend so I think we’re in a good place right now,” said Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson. “We'll have a lot of under covers out there as well as just uniformed officers. So we have stepped it up a bit.”

Police say they will have a two block security perimeter around the park, shutting down streets earlier than previous playoff games. And there will be a wider parking perimeter as well.

“It's going to be an inconvenient weekend to park, to get in and out,” said Alderman Tom Tunney, 44th Ward.

The Cubs are making some changes to make it a bit more convenient for fans going to the game.

“Gates are opening up two and a half hours early, we'll be prepared to open the gates earlier if necessary if asked by police and fire. Our goal is to get them screened as efficiently as possible in and get them into the ballpark,” said Julian Green, V.P. of Communications for the Cubs.

Locals hope the security plans are enough with all the people expected to pour into Wrigleyville.
“There's only so much you can do, but with the barricades I think that helped, and you know the horses also helped. I feel safe,” said Matthew Beaudry.

“This is a Chicago moment and everyone across the city is pushing hard for a Chicago Cubs victory. Whether you're celebrating at Wrigley or at home or at a friend’s house, or at your neighborhood sports bar, we'd like to remind everyone to be responsible and celebrate safely,’ said Superintendent Johnson.

For the Cub’s National League Championship clinching game last weekend, police estimate 300,000 people joined in the celebration. They are expecting big crowds this weekend as well. Superintendent Johnson encouraged people coming to Wrigleyville to bring a good deal of patience with them.