Security ramped up for Lolla this year

CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - It’s expected to be the biggest Lollapalooza to date, with more than 150 bands and tens of thousands of music lovers in attendance.

New this year is a fourth day for the festival and added security, which is top of mind for those attending and city officials.

“You will see an increase in security, some will be visible and some will not be. In addition, C3 hires their own security for this event alone,” said Rich Guidice, the Managing Deputy Director of Operations for the Office of Emergency Management.

More police and extra fencing is being added around the perimeter of the lakefront venue, and all bags will be searched upon arrival.

Guidice says they are in constant communication with security personnel.

“You put together a bunch of different scenarios that have happened all over the world and what if this happened, what if that happened,” he said. “You kind of talk through them and make sure everybody is on the same page with their response.”

This is the 25th year for Lollapalooza and to celebrate, music lovers can catch 170 of their favorite bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Radiohead, on 8 different stages.

“People should plan on coming down to this event and enjoying themselves and not worry about security. We have a good robust security plan in place and we are looking forward to a safe event,” Guidice said.