UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Additional security screening will be in place Saturday, Nov. 21, at Beaver Stadium for the Penn State football game against the University of Michigan, following the terror attacks in Paris last Friday.
While there are currently no known threats against collegiate stadiums, according to the Department of Homeland Security, University leaders have opted to increase security measures this weekend for the safety of the public, at both the Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium.
Penn State strongly recommends that fans not bring a bag into the either venue this weekend; all bags that meet the Penn State bag policy will be subject to search (see below for more information).
On Friday, Nov. 20, extra security will be on hand at the Bryce Jordan Center for a three-band concert featuring Shinedown. Ticketholders are asked to arrive earlier than the 6 p.m. advertised door opening. Patrons will undergo a pat-down at all four gates. The concert begins at 7 p.m.
Backpacks and large bags are not permitted at Bryce Jordan Center events.
Bryce Jordan Center Bag Policy:
bjc.psu.edu/frequently-asked-questions
On Saturday, Nov. 21, for the Penn State Senior Day football game that kicks off at noon, the following practices affecting patrons will be in place, along with a larger security presence by law enforcement:
- Fans are asked to arrive and enter the stadium 30 minutes earlier than normal to accommodate increased security screening at the gates, suite and club entrances. Patrons should be prepared and patient for longer entry time into the stadium. All gates will open at 10 a.m., 30 minutes earlier than normal.
- Fans are reminded that they can enter Beaver Stadium at any gate, other than Gate A, which is the student gate.
- Football game day employees should arrive 30 minutes earlier than their regular reporting time.
- Everyone entering the stadium will be required to open their coats and outerwear. A pat-down by trained male and female security professionals will occur in separate lines at entry points, including the employee entrance.
- Some patrons may be asked to empty their pockets at the gate.
- Except for authorized personnel and those with a medical need, others entering the stadium are encouraged to leave any bags at home or in their car. A clear, 1 gallon, zip-close style plastic bag and wristlets no larger than 4” x 6” x 1” are permitted in Beaver Stadium and fans should be prepared to have these bags inspected at entry.
Beaver Stadium Bag Policy
http://www.gopsusports.com/ot/psu-beaver-stadium-bag-policy.html
- For media covering the game, a bag sweep will occur at the regular media entry gate. Be prepared for delays.
Fans attending Saturday’s football game are encouraged to wear white for the Penn State White Out and to be in their seats by 11:30 a.m. for the Senior Day ceremonies, which will begin 30 minutes before kickoff.
“We greatly value our fans, teams and stadium personnel and the visiting team and fans, and for their safety we are enhancing security operations over the weekend for these venues,” said Mark Bodenschatz, Penn State associate athletic director for facilities and event management operations. “We have a comprehensive security plan in place and we work closely at every game with federal, state and local law enforcement to provide a safe experience for our fans.”
“While we know this may be an inconvenience for some, we ask for everyone’s patience so that we can get fans into the stadium in time for the Senior Day ceremonies and the noon kick. The safety and security of our community is our No. 1 priority, and everyone’s help is needed.”
Anyone who may notice suspicious activity or activities out of the ordinary at any event is asked to immediately call 911 or University Police at 814-863-1111 or text Nittany to 69050.
Beaver Stadium parking lots will open Saturday at 7 a.m.
For more information on tickets, game day arrival, parking or other questions, call 1-800-NITTANY, weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturday after 7 a.m.