Mobile, Ala. – In preparation for the upcoming Mardi Gras celebrations, Mobile police have rolled out comprehensive safety measures to ensure a secure environment for attendees. The festivities kick off with the Conde Cavaliers parade on Friday night.
Captain Stan Ladnier of the Central Precinct indicated that police have been actively planning for the event, urging anyone considering trouble to think twice, as a significant police presence will be evident throughout the area.
To enhance security, police have strategically placed 18 orange bollards on downtown sidewalks and established roadblocks at crucial intersections. These roadblocks, sourced from Tuscaloosa police, will restrict vehicle access on Dauphin Street, Joachim Street, and Jackson Street during the parade.
“Once those go up, you will not be able to drive down Dauphin Street, Joachim Street, or Jackson Street,” Ladnier stated. Each roadblock will be staffed by Mobile police officers who can lower them in case of emergencies, while mounted patrols will also be present to monitor the celebrations.
Addressing safety concerns, Ladnier noted that the primary issues during Mardi Gras typically involve altercations and lost children. He encouraged parents to keep a close eye on their kids and suggested they carry identification cards with contact details for emergencies. “If you do happen to lose your child, find an officer. There’s an officer at every intersection along the parade route,” he advised.
With nearly all Mobile police officers and additional sheriff’s deputies on duty during the Mardi Gras weekend, Ladnier emphasized that “it’s all hands on deck for the police department.”
Amidst the preparations, local families are eagerly anticipating the celebrations. Carla Kennedy, a lifelong resident of Mobile, expressed her enthusiasm as her family visits from North Carolina despite the cold weather. “I have my grandsons and my daughter-in-law and my middle son, and we are so excited,” she shared. “It’s just exciting. It’s electric. You can feel it when you come down here.”
Kennedy conveyed her confidence in the safety of the event, stating, “I have always felt safe. There’s been some years where there’s been some situations, but I feel very safe.”
The police department also issued additional safety reminders, advising residents against parking in no-parking zones, as vehicles will be towed. Attendees are cautioned to respect barricades during parades. New stop signs have been added on Dauphin Street and St. Francis Street, while golf cart operators are reminded to abide by traffic regulations and ensure their vehicles are registered with the state.
With heightened security and community excitement, this year’s Mardi Gras festivities in Mobile are set to be both celebratory and safe.