COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The events in downtown Columbus don’t stop after Red, White and Boom! — events continue week after week, with a special event for soccer fans taking place on July 24.
The MLS All-Star game will kick-off at Lower.com Field in the Arena district, and Columbus will welcome in fans from all over the world.
It raises the profile of Columbus globally. We know soccer is a global sport, and it gives us an opportunity to show off and have people experience the culture that really is unique,” said Brian Ross, President and CEO of Experience Columbus.
The event will bring in at least 20,000 people to the downtown area, and it is expected to have an economic impact of around $20 million.
Now it’s all about making sure those visitors stay safe.
“We are in the moment, but also strategically planning up to that event, making sure that we are in constant analysis, analyzing any threats or any concerns so that we can get ahead of it,” said Columbus police chief Elaine Bryant.
We host major events all the time, and we know that we have a great game plan. We’ll have the resources and support to make sure they stay safe,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther.
ABC 6 News asked about the police’s game plan and other details on how CPD will look to keep not only the game, but also concerts and other events secure.
Chief Bryant said she can’t answer to specifics, but says they’ll “be ready,” and that their officers know a busy summer is what they signed up for.
All hands on deck, and we continue to work,” she said.
Fans also agree they have a good feeling things will be safe when the event comes.
This is an open, welcoming and brutally friendly place, and I know anyone who comes here from out of town will walk away falling in love with Columbus,” said Morgan Hughes.
“There’s a lot of safety plans in place, so I feel like they’ve done their due diligence to ensure the Short North doesn’t happen again,” said Heather Giles.
Overall, fans are grateful for this event to be in their backyard.
There’s so much going on here that, really, they’re able to showcase what Columbus is, and it is a soccer town,” said Giles.
