Baton Rouge, LA, October 24, 2025
News Summary
In response to recent violence, Louisiana State University has announced enhanced security measures and traffic changes for football game days. Starting with the upcoming Texas A&M game, attendees will encounter roadblocks and increased law enforcement to ensure safety. Tailgating regulations have also been tightened, and the previously utilized Unity Field will be closed for the season. The measures aim to maintain a secure environment for students, staff, and fans amidst growing safety concerns.
Baton Rouge, LA — Louisiana State University (LSU) has announced new security policies and traffic changes for football game days in response to recent campus shootings. These measures will take effect beginning with the upcoming game against Texas A&M as a part of the university’s commitment to ensuring the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Attendees planning to tailgate on campus without a parking permit must arrive early. Specific road blocks will be set up along Highland Road, Dalrymple Drive, and other routes starting at 2:30 p.m., four hours before kickoff. LSU is enhancing the enforcement of laws against underage drinking and marijuana use, with an increased law enforcement presence on campus. Fans are encouraged to enter Tiger Stadium early to avoid congestion.
These new security measures were prompted by reports of gunshots during recent games against Florida and South Carolina, coupled with a recent shooting on Highland Road. LSU is officially classified as a firearm-free zone, meaning any firearms discovered on campus will be confiscated. It is crucial to note that law enforcement officers without jurisdiction in East Baton Rouge Parish will not be permitted to carry weapons inside the stadium.
Identified roadblocks for the upcoming game include:
- Highland Road at West Parker (traffic redirected to Burbank and free parking areas on Gourrier)
- South Stadium-West Parker-West Lakeshore (traffic diverted to West Lakeshore or West Parker to Burbank)
- Dalrymple Drive at State Street (traffic redirected to Highland, then Aster and West Roosevelt)
- Highland at West Roosevelt (southbound traffic diverted to West Roosevelt then River Road)
- Nicholson at South Quad limited to parking permit holders
The recent incidents have been traced to a specific tailgating area, leading to its closure for the season. This area, known as Unity Field, is located across from Parker Coliseum. Furthermore, LSU President Matt Lee stated that tailgater organizers submitted incorrect applications, which contributed to large and unmanageable crowds.
As part of these new restrictions, LSU will increase campus security technology and surveillance. New policies regarding tailgates will prevent live bands from performing without prior approval. Tailgating setup may begin after 5 p.m. the day before a game, with restrictions on tent sizes, music, and food sales. Gas-powered generators and drones are prohibited, along with personal port-o-lets and motorized vehicles like golf carts.
The recent Highland Road shooting raised safety concerns among students, prompting discussions regarding campus security. University leaders have reiterated that the safety of the campus community is a top priority. The enhanced policing aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable game day experience for fans and their families.
FAQ
What new security measures has LSU implemented for football game days?
LSU has issued new guidance on pre-game partying and tailgating, enhanced enforcement of underage drinking laws, and increased law enforcement presence on campus.
What specific traffic changes will occur on game day?
Road blocks will be set up starting at 2:30 p.m. along Highland Road, Dalrymple Drive, and other routes to divert traffic.
What are the restrictions regarding tailgating at LSU?
Tailgating setup may begin after 5 p.m. the day before a game, and there are restrictions on tent sizes, music, and food sales. Live bands require prior approval, and certain items, like gas-powered generators, are prohibited.
What led to the closure of the Unity Field tailgating area?
The closure resulted from recent shootings that originated from that tailgating area, prompting safety concerns.
Key Features of LSU’s New Security Policies
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Law Enforcement | Increased presence of law enforcement during game days to ensure safety. |
| Traffic Changes | Road blocks from 2:30 p.m. on game days to manage traffic flow. |
| Tailgating Restrictions | Setup begins after 5 p.m., with limits on size, music, and equipment. |
| Unity Field Closure | The tailgating area has been closed for the season following recent incidents. |
| Firearm-Free Zone | Confiscation of any discovered firearms on campus. |
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Additional Resources
- WBRZ: LSU Outlines Tailgating Policies Ahead of First Home Game
- WWLTV: LSU Tightens Game Day Rules After Shootings Near Tiger Stadium
- Unfiltered With Kiran: LSU Announces New Game Day Security Rules After Recent Violence
- LSU Reveille: LSU Game Day
- Wikipedia: Louisiana State University
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