WS Chronicle

In above photo: Security will be tighter at Bowman Gray Stadium during this year’s football season. (Photo by Erin Mizelle for The Chronicle)

Special to The Chronicle

Winston-Salem State University and the WSSU Department of Athletics have announced new security procedures for Bowman Gray Stadium.

These procedures will take effect for the 2015 season.

“There has been a considerable amount of collaboration with WSSU Campus Police in developing stadium procedures that will provide a safe environment and an enjoyable experience for our fans, student-athletes and officials,” says Tonia Walker, WSSU director of athletics.

“While we realize that some of these policies are different from how we were able to operate at Bowman Gray Stadium in the past, the changes were made with spectator safety at the forefront of our decisions,” Walker added.

WSSU’s gameday policies have been developed over the last year by a committee representing a cross-section of units working on Bowman Gray Stadium operations with a focus on providing a safe environment and enjoyable fan experience.

Restricted bag policy for Bowman Gray stadium

Purpose: As one measure to provide a safe environment and to expedite entry into the Bowman Gray Stadium during events hosted by Winston-Salem State University Department of Athletics, a set of guidelines and restrictions on items that can be carried into the stadium has been developed.

Prohibited items: In order to ensure the safety and security of spectators, student-athletes, and staff, the following items are prohibited inside the stadium arena:

*Alcoholic beverages

*Artificial noise makers

*Backpacks or oversized bags (see below)

*Coolers or containers

*Explosives, firearms, or weapons of any kind

*Illegal drugs

*Outside food or beverages

*Pets (except service animals)

Umbrellas Bag Size Restrictions and Search: Bags that exceed 12 inches x 12 inches x 12 inches dimensions in size are restricted. Size test containers will be at each entry gate. Visual searches will be performed on all bags that fall within the size restriction.

Backpacks as described below are restricted: Backpack – a container designed to hold a bulky/heavy load and be worn on the back, typically characterized by wide shoulder straps, multiple zippers and pockets, and most often constructed of sturdy material such as thick nylon, canvas, or leather. Simple draw string bags with thin shoulder straps, and purses designed to be worn on the back are not considered backpacks.

All prohibited items must be returned to the owner’s vehicle or discarded before entry.

Any unlawful items are subject to confiscation and the person in possession of such items is subject to arrest.

Re-entry: There is no re-entry at Bowman Gray Stadium.

Exceptions: Bag size restrictions do not apply to credentialed event staff, student-athletes, band, media, or visiting team staff. However, all bags entering the stadium arena are subject to search and will be tagged.

NOTE: Access/check points for credentialed personnel with oversized bags are designated at the North (HORN$) Lot and Service Gate entries.