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Savannah Tightens Parade Security For Pence Visit
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Security will be tighter at Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day parade this year because of a visit from Vice President Mike Pence.
Typically, Savannah families stake out spots along the parade route well in advance and settle in for the whole day - with tents, food, chairs, and plenty of drinks.
But this year those items will all be banned in an “enhanced security zone” that includes two of the city’s historic squares. That zone will also be closed from 4-7 a.m. Saturday for a security sweep. Once it’s open, parade-goers will have to pass through security checkpoints.
City spokeswoman Michelle Gavin estimated the restrictions will be lifted by 1 p.m.
(Full details on the security zone are available here)
Gavin said the city has been working with the Secret Service to minimize the impact of the changes.
“We know that this is such a favorite event of so many families," she said, "and we want to do whatever we can to give them the space that they need.”
Since people can’t bring in food, there will be food trucks in the secure zone. Officials said parade-goers can also purchase food and drinks from any businesses operating within the secure zone.
Gavin said she does not have specifics on the cost of Pence’s visit. But she said the city is working with the White House and Secret Service to minimize the local cost.
Locals have also raised concerns on social media about the impact of the security restrictions and the effect of Pence's visit on traffic.
Some objected to the visit on political grounds.
The Savannah LGBT Center said it is, quote, “concerned with his public record against equality and his open support for anti LGBT policies and regulations.” Others have said they plan to display rainbow flags, signs, and clothing.
Flags on sticks, posters, and signs are also among the items banned in the secure zone.
Savannah Police Assistant Chief Robert Gavin says the goal is to keep everyone safe.
“We are going to have this enhanced security zone. That is going to be run by the secret service. We’re going to assist them," he said. "But when it comes to people’s constitutional rights to protest, they can do that.”
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