Watching the Kansas City Chiefs playoff game at Power & Light? What to know about security

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Many fans who didn’t get a ticket to Saturday’s playoff game are expected to gather inside the Kansas City Power & Light District to watch the Chiefs take on the Texans.

If you’re headed there, expect to see Kansas City police officers and security officers throughout the downtown area to ensure safety.

Police wouldn’t give specifics on any extra precautions, or answer questions on how many officers will be working downtown. But the department did say officers will be patrolling the area around the Power & Light District throughout the day.

“We have a well-established plan for protecting those that are out and about on playoff game days,” said Jacob Becchina, a Kansas City Police spokesperson, in an email. “Additionally I know that Power and Light hires off duty police officers to work that venue alongside of their normal security officers they employ.”

Representatives with Power & Light did not speak to security in place for the watch party, which requires a $20 cover charge.

Megan Strickland, press secretary for KC Mayor Quinton Lucas’ office, said the city and law enforcement are “committed to ensuring our residents and visitors’ safety and enjoyment each and every day in Kansas City.”

“The KC Live! Block (in Power & Light) has long served as a gathering place for our region to celebrate together,” Strickland said in an email, “and this weekend will be no different as we cheer on our Kansas City Chiefs against the Texans.”

In years past, thousands have packed into the entertainment district to enjoy Chiefs playoff games and Super Bowls, a situation that’s also brought about some safety concerns. In the wake of the deadly event earlier this month in New Orleans, which occurred as party goers were still celebrating New Years, those concerns have only increased.

At least 14 people were killed and more than 30 injured in the early hours of Jan. 1 during what authorities have labeled as an Islamic State-inspired attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen from Texas, drove a rented Ford pickup through a crowd of people on Bourbon Street.

And in Kansas City, images from last year’s Super Bowl celebration rally are still fresh in many people’s minds. One woman was killed and more than 20 others wounded after gunfire broke out as the rally outside Union Station was wrapping up.

Earlier this week, The Star reported that in light of last year’s mass shooting, if the team happened to win the Super Bowl, local leaders and the Chiefs are discussing possible changes to plans for a celebratory parade and rally. No specifics have been given.

The Chiefs, of course, would have to win this weekend and next to even get to the Super Bowl, which is being held in New Orleans on Feb. 9.

When asked whether downtown streets will be blocked off to traffic during the playoff game(s) or if the bollards — posts used to guide traffic and prevent access and traffic to certain areas — would be used along Grand Boulevard, Becchina referred those questions to the city.

“They are the ones that issue permits to close Grand Blvd. and usually that is done at the request of Power and Light and/or T-Mobile arena,” he said.

Strickland said the bollards would be used at some point this weekend. But not because of the playoff game.

“Bollards are installed whenever an event occurs at the T-Mobile Center,” Strickland said. “This weekend, the T-Mobile Center will host two events: Winter Jam, and Jerry Seinfeld & Jim Gaffigan.”

According to Power & Light’s website, guns and weapons are prohibited inside the district, including “other items that present a risk of harm to person or property.”

Becchina said police continue to advice people to designate a driver if going out to watch the game or “take advantage of ride services that are available.” Also, he said, if you are out, be alert.

“Take care to pay attention to surroundings,” he said, “and as always if you see something say something.”

Becchina also warned against taking the celebrations too far.

“We strongly advise against any type of fireworks or celebratory gunfire,” Becchina said, “and urge people to avoid large side show type gatherings on streets as well.”