Penn State beefs up security for Saturday’s spring game

In the wake of the inexplicable and horrendous tragedy near the finish line of the Boston Marathon Monday, Penn State announced plans Tuesday to add additional layers of security for its spring game Saturday.

Unlike in the past, the university will not permit any fans attending the annual Blue-White Game to bring bags, backpacks or purses into Beaver Stadium. That ban extends to other events held at on-campus venues through the weekend.

From the release:

Except for authorized personnel, no one entering the stadium will be permitted to bring in any bags, backpacks, umbrellas, footballs, strollers, purses or diaper bags. Anyone with a medical need to carry a bag should place their medical supplies in a clear, one gallon, zip-close style plastic bag. Parents with a need to carry diapers and wipes also may place their supplies in a clear, one-gallon zip-close style plastic bag so the contents are visible.

Additionally, the press release states that, "[i]n collaboration with local police, the FBI, and Pennsylvania State Police, Penn State officers and personnel will have a heavier staffing presence and higher visibility at all events.” Other ramped-up security measures appear below:

Officials also will be monitoring activities through the use of technology and will do a security sweep of the stadium and surrounding grounds with officers and police dogs. The stadium will be secured early and police will be stationed strategically throughout the area, adding an additional layer of surveillance.

The school stated that the additional security falls in line with the responses by other venues in light of the twin bombings in Boston yesterday.

“If those who are coming to any event on campus see something that looks unusual or out of place, they should immediately call 911 or University Police,” said Steve Shelow, assistant vice president for police and public safety at Penn State, in a statement. “We are asking people to remain vigilant and alert. ...

“While not permitting any bags into Beaver Stadium is a significant change from our ordinary routine, it is an important additional layer of security that we are instituting for this event. It brings us in line with most other stadiums across the nation.”