Following the nationwide trend at stadiums and other large venues, Canalside is ramping up security for concerts and other major events. Some of the changes will be in place for Thursday night's show.
Erie Canal Harbor Corporation President Tom Dee says no one incident led to the changes. They include double fencing to better control site access, increased lighting at night and more Buffalo Police, who will establish a new substation at Canalside.
"We're in the City of Buffalo and these are Buffalo's finest. I think having the police presence there will do nothing but help exactly what we're trying to do. It wants to be the kind of place where you and your family come down, or any individual comes down, and wants to feel safe. And I think you feel safe when you see a police presence and you know that there's protection," Dee said.
A "zero tolerance" for unruly behavior has also been adopted and several items are now prohibited, including backpacks, weapons, selfie-sticks and animals.
Concert-goers should expect enhanced screening at the gate for Thursday night's concert featuring "Shakey Graves."