UW Eyes Security At Camp Randall
Terror Arrests Prompt Warnings For Stadiums
Updated: 7:47 pm CDT September 23,2009
MADISON, Wis. -- Wisconsin is kicking off the Big 10 football season Saturday, but a federal warning for all sports stadiums by the Department of Homeland Security has UW-Madison taking a closer look at security at Camp Randall.After meeting Wednesday morning, UW-Madison officials decided not to increase security on Saturday.The call for increased awareness stems from the arrest of alleged terror suspects this week in New York and Denver.The arrests have spurred concern over trains and mass transit, but warnings are also being issued for stadiums across the country.UW-Madison student David Savino knows Saturday's Big 10 opener will be big."I live right across the street on Breese Terrace, so I'm excited for every game," said Savino.But before Savino and about 80,000 fans pack into Camp Randall, UW-Madison is making decisions on security for game day."We feel confident with the plan that's in place," said Justin Doherty, UW-Madison Athletic Department spokesman. The university said its security strategy is based on the National Threat Level, which hasn't been raised since the terror arrests in New York."The safety of our customers and our fans and everyone that's in the facilities is first and foremost and so we take that very seriously and will continue," said Doherty. "On a game-to-game basis, regardless of whether it's at Camp Randall or at the Kohl Center or any of our home events, we remain vigilant about security issues.""It isn't going to inhibit fear of going into the stadium, but at the same time I would like to see the UW kind of step it up a bit," said UW-Madison student Brian Draper.But as Savino counts down to game time, he said he feels safe with the game plan that is in place."We do see a lot of security guards around there but overall it's a safe environment. It's all about a great football team, a great UW experience, so I think they're doing a very good job," said Savino. "With the college scene, I think it's a safer environment than Lambeau Field."Lambeau Field will be maintaining a high level of security following the federal warning. But the Packers are on the road this weekend in St. Louis.UW-Madison officials said they will continue to monitor the National Threat Level and will stay vigilant for any security threats at all sporting events.
blog comments powered by DisqusCopyright 2009 by Channel 3000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.













