NFL Assures Fans Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans Will Be Safe Despite Terror Attack
The NFL has reassured fans that Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans will be a “safe and enjoyable” experience, despite an apparent terror attack that left at least 10 people dead and dozens more injured early Wednesday morning on Bourbon Street. The attack raised concerns for safety throughout the city, prompting college football officials to postpone the Sugar Bowl, which was scheduled for later that night at the Superdome less than a mile away from the crime scene.
In the wake of the tragedy, the league issued a statement sharing its condolences for the victims and their families, and reassuring fans of its commitment to ensuring their safety for the big game, which will take place on February 9.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of the devastating incident in New Orleans. Our thoughts are with the victims, the New Orleans community and all those affected,” the statement read. “The NFL and the local host committee have been working collaboratively with local, state and federal agencies the past two years and have developed comprehensive security plans. These planning sessions will continue as they do with all major NFL events, and we are confident attendees will have a safe and enjoyable Super Bowl experience.”
Questions about the safety of pedestrians and tourists were raised to officials, specifically in relation to the use of bollards, which were previously not functioning properly. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell stated that the city will complete a bollard replacement program into its infrastructure package before the Super Bowl. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry acknowledged that there is a problem with the bollards, but promised a permanent solution would be implemented into the standard operating procedure for securing major events and the city quarter.
The NFL and local authorities will continue to work together to ensure the safety of all attendees for the Super Bowl and other major events in the coming months.