TCF Bank Stadium Will Have Enhanced Security For Final 2 Gophers Games
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- University of Minnesota officials announced Wednesday that with the Gophers football team's final two regular season games both being at home, the school is taking enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of fans.
The move comes after the recent terrorist attacks in France.
University officials said that while there are no known threats against college stadiums, school leaders have opted to increase security measures to keep fans safe over the final two football weekends at TCF Bank Stadium.
The Gophers host Illinois at 11 a.m. Saturday. There will be an increase in public safety personnel on campus and the school will only allow clear bags into the stadium, similar to the Vikings policy.
Bags allowed will include plastic, vinyl or PVC and don't exceed 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches. One gallon clear plastic freezer bags or Ziploc bags will be allowed as well as clutch bags. Officials will also make exceptions for medically necessary items after they're inspected at gates.
Stadium workers will provide clear bags to any fans who need to transfer items upon entering the stadium. A bag check will be provided starting at 9:30 a.m. at Williams Arena on the south side of the building off University Avenue. The bag check will close one hour after the game is over, and any fans who aren't able to get their bags back in that time frame can do so at the Williams Arena lost and found on Monday.
The same procedures will be in place for the Gophers' regular season finale against Wisconsin on Nov. 28 at TCF Bank Stadium, which is set for a 2:30 p.m. kickoff.