Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said the city is ready to host two separate St. Patrick's Day Parades this weekend. WBFO's Eileen Buckley says police will be out in full force to keep citizens safe.
"We will be fully prepared before, during and after the parade," said Mayor Brown.
Mayor Brown stood in Niagara Square promising to provide a safe and family-friendly environment this weekend. Saturday south Buffalo hosts the annual 'Old Neighborhood Parade' in the First Ward. Sunday the St. Patrick's Day parades kicks off at 2'o'clock on Delaware Avenue downtown.
"We will be fully prepared before, during and after the parade," said Mayor Byron Brown.
"We will be enforcing open container laws. We will be having DWI checkpoints," said Mayor Brown.
Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda said his officers will be keeping a close watch on the crowds.
"We have good security plans for both events. We have increased the number of officers at each event," said Derenda.
Year after year the Delaware Avenue leads to some traffic jams along Chippewa and sometimes sparks rowdy behavior. Both the mayor and Derenda said is working with area bars and restaurants to ensure responsible behavior.
"The State Liquor Authority will be out in full force to make sure the underage drinking does not take place in bars. We are working with the bar owners on several other issues," stated Derenda.
Allentown Association President Jonathan White also encourages citizens to be considerate and respectful of the residential area near Sunday's parade route.
"Please do remember and respect the fact that you are in and amongst residents and businesses," said White.
In anticipation of heavy crowds for both parades the city suggests parade goers might consider car-pooling or taking public transportation due to limited parking.
The Delaware avenue Parade is one of the oldest and largest in the nation.