Writer: Ryan Gandolfo
2 min read October 2022 – Security measures are a high but necessary cost of sporting events in the United States and globally, and its importance is only increasing in the eyes of event leaders. A recent survey by the University of Southern Mississippi’s National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security noted that 90% of venues used a third-party service provider for security staff and 95% experienced security staff shortages in the last two years.
Visitors’ concerns over safety were also markedly high, with 73.2% of event goers considering safety and security measures when deciding to attend an event.
“Security at events has heightened in the past several years. We are past the COVID protocol divisiveness with fan segments,” Nashville Sports Council CEO Scott Ramsey told Invest:. Ramsey and his team have a shared vision of the future of sporting events that balances increased attendance with the safest possible environment.
In September, the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority board approved plans to explore security concepts related to fencing around the U.S. Bank Stadium’s perimeters. “Goals for the potential perimeter project include enhanced public safety, preservation of public access, and inclusion of public art,” the MFSA said in a statement.
The enclosed stadium is home to the NFL Minnesota Vikings and has a seating capacity of more than 66,000. While estimated costs of the added security layer haven’t been revealed, the area covers 1.75 million square feet.
Meanwhile, the United Bid for the 2026 World Cup, which includes matches across North America, included a budgeted security cost evaluation of $99 million — surpassing Qatar 2022’s estimated cost by nearly $40 million, according to a UN report.
According to the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security report, venue security leaders are looking to continue to invest more in technology, from antivirus software to electronic ticketing and mobile communications to aid facility security.
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