Atlanta Steps Up Security for Peachtree Road Race

In the weeks after the Boston Marathon bombing, APD reported a 30 percent rise in suspicious package sightings. It was at this point Mayor Kasim Reed in a press conference reassured Peachtree runners.

“We will not allow the acts of two sick murderers to alter our way of life or our behavior,” said Reed. 

He promised a safe race.

“I don’t want to paint a fairy tale picture. The city is not going to run normally that day. We’re going to deploy extraordinary resources to keep it safe and it’s going to be disruptive.”

60,000 runners are expected for the annual 10K race. 150,000 more people are expected to watch. Additionally, the Braves are playing later in the evening and a fireworks show is planned at Centennial Park. 

Law enforcement officials say every officer will be on call.

“We will be covered on buses trains and platforms. Every employee and sworn officer will be here. They will be out in force,” said MARTA police chief Wanda Dunham.

Race and security officials are asking spectators to avoid bringing backpacks and large items.

Dunham is also encouraging people to use a free MARTA app created to report suspicious behavior.

“It’s a new tool that gives the message to us quickly and goes directly to the MARTA police 911 center,” said Dunham.

For smoother movement around the city, MARTA officials say more buses and trains will made available. Train wait times will go from 15 minutes to between 5-10 minutes.

Meanwhile, APD chief Georgia Turner has touted the city’s enhanced surveillance system.  He said in the span of a year, it has gone from 50 cameras to more than 1300.

“There should not be a single spot on the [Peachtree race] route that will not have camera coverage.”

Turner said all bags are subject to search, particularly those seen close to the beginning and end of the race.

The wheelchair race will kick off the day’s event at 6:45 am.