As West Palm Beach gears up for former President Donald Trump's election night watch party, city officials have detailed a comprehensive security and traffic plan to ensure the event tomorrow unfolds smoothly. West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James has emphasized the city's commitment to safety in light of the expected large turnout.
As reported by CBS12, Mayor James set a strict tone, warning those considering disruptions: "The West Palm Beach Police Department is collaborating with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Secret Service, and Homeland Security to ensure a secure environment during the event." To facilitate security, officials will implement specific measures, including maintaining traffic flow on Okeechobee Boulevard, with one lane closed next to the Palm Beach County Convention Center, and a sidewalk closure on the south side of the center to direct pedestrian traffic.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw has taken steps to be ready for any potential tension increases, including preparation for detours if a full closure of Okeechobee Boulevard becomes necessary, with lanes ready to be closed off and detours established. Ensuring everyone knows their place, designated areas for demonstrators have been demarcated to prevent overflow onto the streets, Bradshaw mentioned in a statement obtained by WPBF. These boundaries will be enforced throughout the night by deputies and officers.
Remote sites contain essential resources nearby, including two correctional buses, to deal with any issues that may arise. Sheriff Bradshaw said, "I want to bring in a couple correctional buses down there, which is a nice name for a jail," according to the interview he gave WPBF.
Interim West Palm Beach Police Chief Tony Araujo emphasized logistical details for attendees, mentioning that parking will be reserved for registered participants only, requiring prior vehicle registration for access to the convention center garage. He advised considering ride-sharing options due to expected congestion, stating, "Parking is going to be limited. If you're coming to downtown West Palm Beach, if you're going to the event, I would suggest you share a ride because it's going to be congested,” in a WPBF interview. Sheriff Bradshaw anticipates Trump’s arrival between 10 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., though this may change.