BLOOMINGTON – Downtown Bloomington will see substantially increased public safety measures this weekend as Indiana University football hosts the University of Southern California on Saturday, November 14.
The Bloomington Police Department (BPD), Indiana University Police Department, and Indiana State Police are once again coordinating a joint public safety response, having met several times over the past week to review preparations and develop operational strategies ahead of Saturday’s game. Together, the agencies will deploy additional personnel and resources and intensify enforcement of existing laws throughout downtown, including Indiana’s curfew laws for minors and criminal laws prohibiting disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Individuals who violate the law should expect consequences, including citations or arrest when warranted.
The City will also implement temporary parking restrictions along Kirkwood Avenue between Indiana Avenue and Grant Street and in designated surface parking lots following Saturday’s game.
The City will also implement temporary parking restrictions along Kirkwood Avenue between Indiana Avenue and Grant Street and in designated surface parking lots following Saturday’s game.
“Bloomington’s reputation as a welcoming community is worth protecting. Violence has no place here,” said Mayor Kerry Thomson. “We have already taken extensive steps to prepare for major events, and this weekend we are going further. We will not allow the actions of a few individuals to define the experience of everyone who lives here or comes to visit.”
The City is expanding enforcement operations following incidents of gun violence during major Indiana University event weekends earlier this year.
Indiana law limits the preventive measures local governments can take, even with extensive public safety preparations. Cities generally cannot prohibit lawfully carried firearms on public streets and sidewalks, establish firearm-free zones for outdoor public gatherings, or impose additional local restrictions on firearm possession and carrying, except in limited circumstances.
The City encourages residents, students, businesses, and visitors to follow posted parking notices, comply with applicable laws, and follow instructions from public safety personnel.
