Downtown Dallas is preparing for heightened security, road closures, and thousands of visitors as the Republican National Committee’s first-ever midterm convention approaches at the American Airlines Center.
The two-day event is scheduled for September 9 and 10 and is expected to draw about 20,000 people, including President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Republican leaders, delegates and activists.
Security preparations are already underway around the arena, with temporary fencing being installed and federal, state and local law enforcement agencies coordinating security plans.
Road Closures Begin September 7
Several streets surrounding the American Airlines Center and Victory Park are scheduled to close beginning Monday, September 7, and remain restricted until midnight Friday, September 11.
The affected streets include Victory Avenue, North Houston Street, Nowitzki Way, Payne Street and North Field Street. The DART Victory Park station will also be closed during the convention.
The Secret Service said people who live or work inside the security perimeter will generally be allowed to reach their homes and businesses, but pedestrians and vehicles entering secured areas may have to pass through checkpoints and security screening.
Checkpoints are planned on Payne Street east of the arena and at two locations on Victory Place, north and south of the American Airlines Center.
Christina Foley, special agent in charge of the Secret Service Dallas Field Office, said residents and workers should expect delays and possible rolling closures.
Residents and Businesses Prepare
Businesses inside the secured area are working with federal officials to obtain credentials for employees and arrange alternate access and parking.
Some residents, however, said they have received little information about how the security measures will affect them.
Businesses are also concerned about customers being able to reach them. Alexis Jacobs, manager of VIV Wellness Center, said the restrictions could force the business to reschedule appointments if patients have difficulty entering the area, CBS News reported.
Residents in Victory Park said they are accustomed to traffic disruptions because of events at the American Airlines Center but expect the political convention to bring a different atmosphere.
Rideshare vehicles and food delivery drivers will also face restrictions inside the secured perimeter. People traveling to the area are being urged to plan ahead, allow extra time, and follow directions from law enforcement.
Security Screening and Prohibited Items
Residents, employees, and others who need access to the secured area are encouraged to carry identification and documentation showing their connection to a home, business, parking location, or other destination inside the perimeter.
The Secret Service has also established restrictions on what attendees can bring into the convention. Prohibited items include weapons, ammunition, knives, aerosols, drones, explosives, pepper spray, bicycles, coolers, laser pointers, selfie sticks, signs and banners, among other items deemed potential security risks.
Small purses and bags cannot exceed 5 by 7 by 1 inches. Clear bags are permitted if they are no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches and meet the agency’s requirements.
A no-fly zone will also be in effect during the convention, restricting manned aircraft and drones around the event area.
Police Prepare for Protests
Law enforcement agencies are also preparing for possible demonstrations during the convention.
Dallas police have urged protesters to remain peaceful and stay outside restricted security areas. Pike Park has been identified as the closest public property where protesters can gather near the American Airlines Center.
Community groups are also planning demonstrations elsewhere in Dallas, including a “We the People” rally at City Hall on September 10.
Dallas police, the Secret Service, FBI and U.S. Capitol Police have conducted security assessments and walkthroughs of the arena and surrounding area.
Foley said officials are developing a coordinated security plan with federal, state and local partners. The convention has not been designated a National Security Special Event.
Convention Brings Trump, Vance to Dallas
The convention will begin at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9.
The first night is expected to focus on issues including tax cuts, health care affordability, border security, trade and domestic manufacturing. Vance is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, with Trump also expected to appear.
The second night will highlight families affected by Republican policies involving taxes on tips and overtime and Social Security. The program will also include a tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with Trump scheduled to keynote the evening.
The City of Dallas estimates that providing police security for the convention will cost about $1.8 million. The Republican National Committee has indicated it is willing to help cover the expense.
With the event less than a week away, residents, businesses and commuters in the Victory Park area are being advised to prepare for several days of closures, crowds and heightened security.
Provided by Dallas Express
