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Saratoga Springs is ramping up security for the annual Belmont on Broadway festival, which will take place from June 4th to June 8th. The festival coincides with the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival. As part of the security measures, Broadway will be closed between Van Dam Street and Lake Avenue starting at 5 a.m. on Wednesday June 4th. The closure is to accommodate the festival's activities, including a free concert by the alternative rock band the Gin Blossoms, scheduled to start at 7 p.m. with opening act Uprooted at 8:30 p.m.
To ensure public safety, attendees are prohibited from bringing coolers, large bags, alcohol, pets, and drones to the concert.
In addition to road closures, Saratoga Springs will implement a no-fly zone over key areas, including Broadway and the Saratoga Race Course, from June 4 to June 8. This measure is part of broader security efforts to maintain order during the festival. IHeart Radio reports that additional officers will be on duty to ensure the safety of attendees.
The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival is a significant event for Saratoga Springs, bringing in millions of dollars in economic impact. Figures show the festival boosted hotel revenues by 20% last year. The main event, the Belmont Stakes, will take place on Saturday June 7th at the Saratoga Race Course.