Taylor Swift in Toronto: Experts say crowd safety depends on planning
Toronto Gears Up for Taylor Swift’s Arrival with Enhanced Safety Measures
As Toronto prepares for the much-anticipated arrival of Taylor Swift this week, experts in crowd management and planning are emphasizing the need for additional safety precautions to handle the massive influx of fans expected to flood the city’s downtown core on show nights.
Despite planned road closures and various security measures announced by the city, experts warn of potential challenges in crowd dynamics and severe traffic gridlock that may arise during the six sold-out Eras Tour stops at Rogers Centre from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16 and Nov. 21 to Nov. 23.
With up to 500,000 visitors expected to attend the concerts and related events like Taylgate’24 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, as well as concurrent events at Scotiabank Arena, public safety specialist Kevin Kennedy advises attendees to be prepared for sudden changes in crowd behavior.
Kennedy, a former police officer and owner of Kennedy Crowd Safety Solutions, stresses the importance of following directions in case of emergencies and urges parents to communicate safety plans with their children attending the concerts.
The city has announced several safety contingencies, including the activation of an emergency operations center during the Eras Tour and a significant police presence both inside and outside the venue, as stated by Toronto Police Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue.
In terms of traffic management, the city will implement road closures and restrictions near Rogers Centre on show days, with designated drop-off and pickup zones and traffic agents in the area to assist with crowd control.
However, transportation planning expert Amer Shalaby suggests extending traffic restrictions beyond concert nights to alleviate congestion throughout Swift’s extended tour stop in the city.
Shalaby emphasizes the need for transparent communication with drivers about the traffic situation and encourages the use of public transit or remote work arrangements to minimize the impact of increased traffic.
Overall, effective communication and coordination between city services and event organizers will be crucial in ensuring a smooth and safe experience for fans attending the Eras Tour in Toronto, according to Kennedy.
With proper planning and cooperation, the city is well-equipped to handle the surge in crowds and traffic during Taylor Swift’s concerts, he added.
Stay informed and stay safe during this exciting event in Toronto!
This article is based on a report by The Canadian Press, originally published on Nov. 12, 2024.
