Oakland Police Ready For Crowd Control If Warriors Win Championship
OAKLAND (CBS SF) -- Oakland City Administrator Sabrina Landreth said in letter to the community that the city is preparing for "exuberant celebrations" in the
event the Golden State Warriors win the National Basketball Association championship Monday night or later in their series with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Warriors, who won the championship last season, currently lead the series three games to one and can clinch the league title if they win their home game against the Cavaliers at the Oracle Arena Monday night.
If the Warriors don't win Monday night, they could win the title in Game 6 in Cleveland on Thursday or in Game 7 in Oakland next Sunday if the series is extended that long.
Championship games won by Bay Area sports teams have caused vandalism and uncontrollable crowds in the past.
Landreth said if the Warriors win the championship, "Based on the experiences of other large cities following sports championship games, we anticipate that there may be large crowds that could lead to the potential for disruption to traffic and pedestrian movement."
Landreth said the city and its Police Department will issue alerts if circumstances warrant.
She said, "The city of Oakland will be prepared to maintain a safe environment for all to enjoy the pre- and post-game celebrations. Our entire city family will be working hard to put Oakland's best foot forward, making sure that the world knows what a great host Oakland has been for the finals."
Landreth said, "Oakland is proud of the Warrior's phenomenal performance this season and in the Finals. We're all cheering on the team to a repeat championship victory."
She said fans who want to join in the excitement can go to the many Oakland businesses that are offering special menus, extended hours and special offers during the championship series.
Landreth said Visit Oakland, the city's convention and visitors bureau, has a roster of participating locations and fun options on its website.
