Safety measures in place ahead of Mid-Missouri PrideFest
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Mid-Missouri PrideFest began on Saturday afternoon and will continue through Sunday, running from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The event will result in several road closures and potential traffic disruptions in downtown Columbia throughout the weekend.
According to the Mid-Missouri Pridefest Emergency Plan, each street entrance will be barricaded to ensure safety during the event. Road closure signs will be placed near Park & St. James.
President of PrideFest Janet David re-assured that there are plenty of parking spaces available for guests.
"We are lucky enough also that Columbia College doesn't mind that we use their lot," Davis said. "So, if you get in here, there's a great spot on 10th street right outside of Columbia College with lots of parking, and then the parking lots and garages are free on the weekend anyway."
The festival also has an emergency procedure plan in place featuring over 20 staff members ready to assist if any issues were to arise, with eight specifically dedicated to security.
“We’ve never had an incident in the 24 years we’ve been hosting Mid-Missouri PrideFest but with the current climate, the city wanted to ensure we had the extra help," Davis said.
Additionally, two MU Health Care trucks and the festival’s own first aid tent are on hand for emergencies.
"We have an emergency plan in place if we need it, and we've never had to use it. Knock something, knock on wood, I guess but they're there if we need them," David said. "And, we have our own first aid tent as well with carts and people and we actually have you know, a doctor in there as well. So if something were to happen, everything is really close."
However, Davis said two incidents reported during last year's festival. One involving a protester and the other, dealing with the response to the protest.
Davis said the festival will continue regardless of the weather because scheduling during the fall season, especially with MU football in season, is challenging.
"Once we pick a date everything else in September and October fills up so quickly that we would have to move it to the next year anyway," Davis said. "So,we aren't afraid of a little rain so it's okay as long as it's not lightning."
