CALGARY – The Flames’ win Sunday night brought about 1,500 people to Calgary’s 17 Avenue S.W. – reigniting the Red Mile – and stepping up security concerns for police and businesses ahead of Tuesday’s Game 4.
Police said about six tickets were handed out on Sunday—mostly for jaywalking and open alcohol. But Staff Sgt. Tom Hanson said police will be focusing on monitoring pedestrian behaviour after seeing fans running into the street to high-five drivers.
“We want to make sure people stay safe, and we don’t want them going into traffic and trying to interact with vehicles, because that just puts everybody in a higher level of risk,” said Hanson.
The Corbeaux Bakehouse, a high-end eatery that recently opened in the heart of the Mile, has a large patio and stays open for each Flames game. One manager said a Sunday night incident will lead to increased security staff.
“We had to call 911 once…last night was a little out of control…but we learned some good lessons,” said Don Cline, who said a quick response by police ended an argument that may have turned violent. “We will be putting on some security help; we need to do that for our fans and for our staff to make sure everything is controlled and there are no problems.”
Police don’t have plans to close portions of 17 Ave. S.W., but say they will be monitoring the situation on a game-by-game basis.
Many area residents say the atmosphere is exciting rather than a concern, and haven’t had a bad experience as of yet.
“So far haven’t heard any complaints,” said Jake MacDonald, who lives near the Red Mile. “Everyone seems to be keeping it clean, no garbage out on the streets. So it’s nice.”
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