KNOXVILLE – Security measures at Neyland Stadium for the upcoming football season will be similar to the past two years, a UT official said Tuesday.
Philip Scheurer, University of Tennessee vice president for operations, said stadium security procedures developed since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks have worked well.
“We have reviewed our comprehensive security plan with local, state and federal law enforcement officials, and consequently have made very few noticeable changes from last year,” Scheurer said. “However, we are always looking for ways to improve and to avoid unnecessary inconvenience for fans.”
Stadium gates will open at 1 p.m. for Saturday’s Fresno State game. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m.
Large parcels such as backpacks will not be permitted inside the stadium. No items can be stored or left at the gate, he said.
Fans may bring stadium seats without arms, cushions, binoculars, small cameras, pagers, cell phones, radio headsets and diaper bags that accompany an infant.
“Any of these items, including purses, are subject to being searched at the gate,” he said.
“As usual, we are asking people not to wait until the last minute before kickoff to enter the stadium. In the past late arriving fans have created a backup at the gates.”
Again this season, directional parking will be used in Area 9 and Lots 1,2,4 and 5.
Phillip Fulmer Way from Middle Drive to Tee Martin Drive, Peyton Manning Pass, Middle and Lower drives and Estabrook Drive will be closed 30 minutes before kickoff.
For Saturday’s game, those streets will close at 2:30 p.m., and they will not reopen until after the game is over.
Solicitation near stadium gates and along Phillip Fulmer Way will be prohibited.
Airspace restrictions over Neyland Stadium continue, Scheurer said. Unless specifically authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration, aircraft must stay three miles away from the stadium and fly above 3,000 feet.
Authorized aircraft operations that can function within the temporary flight restrictions are military, emergency, law enforcement and any aircraft arriving or departing from Island Home Airport, he said.
The traditional Vol Walk to the stadium begins at 12:45 p.m. Saturday. Neyland Stadium gates open at 1 p.m., and the Pride of the Southland Band’s march is scheduled for 1:20 p.m.