KNOXVILLE – Security measures similar to those for Tennessee football games will be in effect for the June 7 Kenny Chesney concert at Neyland Stadium.
Philip Scheurer, University of Tennessee vice president for operations, said Friday that concert-goers should plan to arrive early because everyone will be subject to security screening when they enter the stadium.
Stadium gates will open at 2 p.m., two hours before the scheduled start of the concert.
“The university’s security plan has worked well since it was implemented in September 2001,” Scheurer said, “and we will use it for the concert.
“Those attending should anticipate that all purses and other items will be inspected at the gate.”
Backpacks, coolers, video cameras, audio recorders, food and drinks, and umbrellas cannot be taken into the stadium. Cushions, stadium seats without arms, binoculars, small film cameras, pagers, cell phones and diaper bags that accompany an infant are allowed.
Items not allowed inside Neyland Stadium cannot be stored at the gate and will have to be returned to the individual’s car, Scheurer said.
Alcohol is not permitted in the stadium or on UT property and smoking is banned inside the stadium.
Traffic and parking procedures will be similar to those used for home football games.
Phillip Fulmer Way from Middle Drive to Tee Martin Drive, Peyton Manning Pass, Middle and Lower drives and Estabrook Drive will be closed at 3:30 p.m. These streets will not reopen until after the concert is over.
Neyland Drive from Lake Loudoun Boulevard to Walnut Street will be closed from 2 a.m. Saturday, June 7, until after the concert to accommodate a street festival near Thompson-Boling arena. Police will allow cars whose passengers have concert tickets through the Walnut Street barricade so they can park in the G-10 garage.
Parking in UT lots near the stadium will be $5. Those who chose to park at the agricultural campus will pay $10 for parking and shuttle bus transportation.