Aug 28, 2008 1:45 am US/Pacific
Get A Behind-The-Scenes Look At Invesco Security
DENVER (CBS) ―
-
-
Invesco Field at Mile High on Wednesday.
CBS
Thursday the Democrats' party shifts over to Invesco Field at Mile High and those who are planning on attending can count on extremely tight security.
CBS station KCNC-TV Investigator Brian Maass got a behind-the-scenes look at the security in place and now has a good idea of what to expect.
As he warmed up onstage to play with Stevie Wonder at Invesco Thursday, drummer Shoji Kameda couldn't contain his excitement.
"Oh my God, are you serious," Kameda said.
He'll find security will be especially serious. They've been planning for a year and a half. Expect at least three security fences or perimeters to pass through just to get near the stadium.
"I would equate it to just like going through the airport; you're going to have the same screening that's there," an officer told Maass.
Everyone will have to pass through metal detectors and there will be a large amount of uniformed and plainclothes security officers.
"We have to ensure a safe environment for all the Denver citizens that are coming down," the officer said.
The podium is lined with Kevlar, the same material used to make bullet-proof vests. It was not known if Obama will be wearing any kind of body armor.
The podium has another slick feature -- outside air conditioning. There are also multiple Teleprompters for Obama to read from. Backstage, behind the podium, there is a place for speakers and musicians to hang out.
Police acknowledge securing the stadium is a big job, but not a new one. The Secret Service regularly protects presidents-at-large, outdoor venues, and they do the same for the pope when he's in the U.S.
Kameda is nervous about his performance, but not about security.
"Bring it on, it's all good, not worried at all, no," Kameda said.
Police are a little worried about potentially long lines at the stadium. They are urging people to arrive as early as possible to avoid lines.
Police say for those who don't have credentials, don't bother to even show up, they won't let them in.
Gates open at 1 p.m. Thursday.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
On the Road at the Conventions Blog
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
