(The Center Square) — With Mardi Gras celebrations under way, the city of New Orleans is ramping up security measures in response to the heightened threat level following the New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street.
Law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels are deploying an unprecedented security apparatus to safeguard the city’s iconic event.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick announced that the city has implemented extensive perimeter security measures in the French Quarter, with barriers and restricted vehicular access at key intersections. Officers will maintain an enhanced presence, with both visible and covert patrols deployed throughout the area.
“We are providing an enhanced patrol presence, some which will be very visible and other measures that will not, but all are intended to be a deterrent to threat actors,” Kirkpatrick said in a news release.
The Louisiana State Police is bolstering these efforts by reinforcing existing barriers with additional physical security measures, including wedges and reinforced barricades along Bourbon Street and parade routes. Federal agencies are contributing tactical response teams, bomb detection units and cyber intelligence capabilities to monitor potential threats in real time.
Homeland Security officials confirmed that additional SWAT teams and K-9 patrols will be on duty throughout the celebrations.
Surveillance technology, including facial recognition cameras and drones, will also be deployed to monitor large crowds and identify potential risks.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell emphasized that Mardi Gras has been officially designated a Special Event Assessment Rating 1 event by the Department of Homeland Security. This classification means the city receives heightened federal resources and interagency support, typically reserved for major national security events like the Super Bowl.
“Make no mistake about it, ordinances will be followed and will be enforced,” Cantrell said in February.
In addition to law enforcement presence, hospitality workers and residents are being trained to recognize and report suspicious activity as part of an expanded “See Something, Say Something” campaign. Reports of unattended bags, suspicious behavior, or other concerns can be made through the NOPD non-emergency line or the LSP hotline.
Further security enhancements include strict prohibitions on unattended coolers along parade routes, a direct response to the New Year’s Day attack in which the suspect allegedly used coolers to conceal explosive devices. Authorities will enforce a no-cooler policy within the French Quarter and encourage revelers to remain vigilant.
With security preparations reaching unprecedented levels, officials are confident that Mardi Gras will proceed safely, allowing visitors and residents alike to enjoy the city’s biggest celebration without fear.
