Police Increase Security At Downtown OKC Events

It's a big week for our city. The festival of the arts going on now, there's a big Thunder playoff game on Wednesday, and the memorial marathon happens this weekend.

A lot of folks will be heading downtown, and that means more security.

It was a cold day to kick off the festival of the arts, but the rain let up Tuesday afternoon. Despite the weather, lots of families made their way downtown.

4/23/2013 Related Story: In Light Of Boston Bombing, Security Heightened At OKC Arts Festival

While the festival starts on Tuesday, Oklahoma City police have been out there getting ready around the clock since Sunday. It's been a big event in our city for 47 years.

While security has always been a part of the festival of the arts, after what happened in Boston, you can to expect to see more police this year.

"We do have a lot of people out this time of year, and because the anniversary of the bombing has just recently passed, there's typically a review of security measures," Mayor Mick Cornett said.

Bomb techs swept downtown Tuesday morning. Throughout the week, officers will be out there 24 hours a day, some in watch towers and nearby buildings to monitor everything on the ground.

"I did notice police officers around the perimeter," James Spradley said.

Braving the cold Tuesday, lots of folks took in the artwork and enjoyed the food. And everybody seemed to notice the heightened security.

"It makes us feel more comfortable knowing that there's a little more care taken for the security of everyone at the arts festival," Charli Swyden said.

The mayor reassured people that the city is ready for a full week ahead.

"This is not a week to stay indoors, there's too many exciting things going on in Oklahoma City," Mayor Cornett said.

Not only do we have the arts festival going on, a lot of people headed down to the Chesapeake Energy Arena today to pick up their tickets for the big game Wednesday night.

The Barons play this weekend, and the marathon is Sunday. It doesn't seem like much will stop folks from heading downtown.

Officers want to remind families to be aware of their surroundings and report anything suspicious to police.