We’re less than 24 hours away from the start of this year’s ESSENCE festival of culture, and as hundreds of thousands of visitors make their way to the Crescent City, officials are ensuring safety resources are in place.
Maria Pool said the last time she visited Bourbon Street during ESSENCE weekend, “there was nothing. It was empty, no barricades no nothing.”
Now, there’s a noticeable change along the busy street.
“They really blocked it off, and I feel so much better and safer when I come through here,” Pool said.
Barricades and barriers are some safety measures visitors, including Vanessa Manley, will see during the crowded weekend.
“We’re staying here in the French Quarter. I have not felt unsafe the whole time we’ve been here,” Manley said.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said there will also be increased staffing during the weekend.
“We’re going to have 400 officers out this weekend, and that’s just the officers assigned to the festival itself,” Kirkpatrick said.
On the heels of a terrorist attack and, most recently, a high-profile jail escape, Kirkpatrick promised that resources will not be tied up as they work with state and federal partners.
“It’s not going to impact it, but I want to also assure the public all resources devoted to catching the last inmate Groves, we’re still working that day in and day out,” Kirkpatrick said.
Visitors said, the city of New Orleans is the perfect party atmosphere and it’s nice to know additional measures are being taken to keep them safe.
“New Orleans Police Department is in position here, so we feel safe and pretty good out here, so no fear,” Manley said.
“I really feel like they care about the people and they care about the tourists,” Pool said.
In a statement, the city of New Orleans said, “The public is encouraged to be patient and prepared for heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic in event areas around downtown and the French Quarter by making transportation arrangements accordingly.”
NOPD is also urging people to not drink and drive, have designated spots to meet if you split from your group and always beware of your surroundings while minding your pockets and belongings.
READ MORE:NOPD discuss security measures ahead of ESSENCE weekend
