Labor Day weekend is here, bringing tens of thousands of residents and visitors to Atlanta for nearly 50 planned events across the city.
From Dragon Con and Atlanta Black Pride to college football, WWE, the Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival and Taste of Soul Atlanta, it’s one of the city’s busiest weekends of the year.
On Friday, Mayor Andre Dickens joined Atlanta Police Department Assistant Chief Charles Hampton and Atlanta BeltLine President and CEO Clyde Higgs to share a simple message: get out, enjoy Atlanta and know that the City is prepared.
“Whether you live here or you are visiting to our fair city this weekend, we want you to get out and enjoy Atlanta,” Mayor Dickens said. “Enjoy the Atlanta BeltLine. Support our businesses, experience our neighborhoods and our culture.”
What You’ll See This Weekend
APD is increasing its presence in entertainment districts, neighborhoods, parks and along the Atlanta BeltLine. That includes bicycle patrols, Path Force officers and specialized units. The Joint Operations Center will also be activated to monitor events and coordinate resources.
“Our message today is just simple: come out, have a good time, and know that the Atlanta Police Department will either meet you there or beat you there,” Hampton said.
Along the BeltLine, the additional APD presence will complement existing lighting, cameras and BeltLine Ambassadors.
“Safety for everyone who visits, works and lives along the Atlanta BeltLine is our top priority,” Higgs said. “The increased presence of APD’s Path Force will add strong visibility and support as we welcome visitors and we welcome residents throughout this busy holiday weekend.”
Enjoy Atlanta Safely
Nightlife Ambassadors will also be stationed in key entertainment areas to provide directions, safety escorts and other assistance.
If you’re heading out, City officials encourage you to use MARTA or rideshare when possible, stay hydrated, be aware of your surroundings and look out for one another.
And remember: call 911 for emergencies and ATL311 for non-emergencies.
“Have fun, be aware of your surroundings, look out for one another, and just know that your Atlanta Police Department will be out there working to keep you safe,” Hampton said.
