Canalside introduces changes to concert security, guest experience

Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp., in conjunction with City of Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and the Buffalo Police Department, will introduce several changes to its security and guest experience protocol at the free Thursday concert series and other major events at Canalside. 

"The continued safety of Canalside guests is our top priority and the new procedures will strengthen and standardize the security and public safety practices for the site," ECHDC said in a press release. "There will be zero tolerance for any unruly individuals or those looking to cause trouble at the waterfront. Several measures will be taken - some immediately and some in the future - to increase public safety."

These include:

•Additional Buffalo police officers will be stationed at Canalside to assist Canalside's private security team in enforcement of rules.

•Buffalo Police Department will establish a substation at Canalside.

•Increased presence of Buffalo Peacemakers, an organization that provides guidance and mentoring to at-risk youth.

•Increased lighting to illuminate dark areas.

•Better control at site perimeters (e.g., double fencing).

•Enhanced security screening.

Also note the following changes to the concert and large event security policy that will be occurring over the next several weeks:

•Any patron who has been ejected and attempts re-entry will be charged with criminal trespassing.

•Gates close at 9:30 p.m. and no one will be allowed into the concert after that time.

•No backpacks will be allowed.

•As has been the case for all concerts and large events this season, all patrons are subject to security screening at the entry gates.

Items that must be placed on the security inspection tables:

• All metal
• Bags (bag policy - only diaper bags and small purses/handbags are permitted)
• Cell phones
• Keys
• Electronic devices
• Chairs

Prohibited items at Canalside concerts:

• Backpacks
• Weapons of any kind
• Illegal drugs/drug paraphernalia
• Fireworks
• Glass containers
• Outside food or beverage, including coolers
• All professional video and photo cameras
• Recording devices
• Selfie sticks, tripods or monopods
• Laser pointers
• Air horns
• Animals (unless a service animal)
• Bicycles (within the secure perimeter)
• Any item deemed inappropriate or dangerous by security

In addition, this season there are new protocols regarding alcohol consumption.

Alcohol consumption

• Any guest who is deemed intoxicated upon arrival will not be permitted to enter.
• Anyone under the age of 21 who possesses alcohol will be ejected from the site.
• Any adult who provides alcohol to somebody under the age of 21 will be ejected.
• Staff may ask for proof of age from anyone wishing to purchase alcohol.
• There will be a maximum of two beers sold to any one person.
• Anyone who staff believes to be intoxicated will be immediately ejected.