US: Strict Security Measures Likely in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX

While the game will be played at the Caesars Superdome, heightened security measures and some disruptions are likely in multiple locations beginning in late January. On Monday, Feb. 3, the stadium will host a media event that will be open to the public; The Super Bowl Experience, an event directed at fans, will begin Feb. 5 at the Ernst N. Morial Convention Center. NFL and local officials have also planned events at the French Market and elsewhere in the French Quarter, as well as the National World War II Museum; these areas will also see large crowds of visitors and significant police presence. Following the Jan. 1 attack, authorities have installed steel barriers in key locations, including along Bourbon Street, to reduce the risk of any similar vehicle attack. Additional security is also likely at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), and around major hotels that will host the teams and the more than 100,000 visitors the city expects to receive. The Federal Aviation Administration will also likely implement a slate of temporary flight restrictions over the New Orleans area on Feb. 9 to limit aerial threats or disruptions, including those from drones. 

Beyond specific threats related to the Super Bowl, the main risk for people attending the game and related events is common crime. New Orleans has for years been one of the cities with the highest violent crime and homicide rates in the US. Nevertheless, the city has seen significant improvements after experiencing record-high crime numbers in 2022, including an almost 50 percent drop in homicides. Despite this, the homicide rate in New Orleans remains several times higher than the national average. While police presence will be noticeable in and around the stadium and other high-profile venues, the risk of pickpocketing and other non-violent crimes is higher around hotels, restaurants, and areas removed from game-related events. 

Demonstrations are possible near venues drawing particularly large numbers of visitors, although any such gatherings will probably remain too small to create noticeable disruptions. Some Native American organizations frequently protest games involving the Kansas City Chiefs and are likely to demonstrate in the Super Bowl. Additionally, protests related to conflicts in the Middle East or the policies of the new US administration may occur.

Incidents similar to the Jan. 1 Bourbon Street attack are unlikely through the Super Bowl given the enhanced security measures authorities have taken since that time. Still, security operations may impact some daily activities in the city, and people attending the game or related events should plan accordingly for delays or map out alternative routes to reach the destinations. 

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