New security measures at Millennium Park

CHICAGO (Fox 32 News) - If your summer plans include a trip to Millennium Park, you may want to plan extra time for new security measures that went into place Saturday.

The measures include bag checks, providing an initial screening, while hand wands will take it a step further.

“It’s a little off-putting at first, but I guess these are the times in which we live, so what are you going to do?” said Kathryn Black, visiting the park with her husband Saturday afternoon.

Ann Hickey, deputy commissioner at the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events said the perimeter will be expanded with larger events, such as the city’s annual Blues festival.

“This is just Millennium Park getting in line with what happens at any major festival and events throughout the nation,” said Hickey.

The plan is to have the security in place through September, according to a press release from the city.