Earlier this week, the Philadelphia Phillies were awarded a SAFETY Act designation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for their ongoing and constant commitment to keeping fans safe while attending games, concerts and special events at Citizens Bank Park.

“The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has set the bar high when it comes to being awarded a SAFETY Act designation,” said Phillies President Andy MacPhail. “Receiving this recognition further validates our commitment to providing the safest environment possible for all who enjoy our ballpark. Keeping Citizens Bank Park secure is a team effort, and we thank the countless law enforcement and emergency services officials who are constantly working with us to ensure a safe gameday experience.” 

“Security is paramount at Citizens Bank Park,” said Salvatore DeAngelis, Phillies Director, Operations/Security. “The safety of our fans, employees and players is of the utmost importance. The recognition by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security took place after an almost three-year process and we are honored to be recognized for our efforts.”

The SAFETY Act recognition comes after an intense review process by the Institute for Defense Analyses.

“The Phillies’ ownership has shown commitment to its fans both on the field of play and through tireless devotion to improvements to the security inside and outside of Citizens Bank Park,” said John Skinner, Vice President, Security & Facilities Management, Major League Baseball.

The club began improving security efforts in 2015 after a league-wide mandate to install magnetometers at the ballpark. Since then, the Phillies have gone above and beyond with significant projects and enhancements related to stadium security. Enhancements include explosive detection canine teams at all vehicle entry points, and hardening the expanded security perimeter with static crash-rated bollards, operable barriers near the ballpark and portable anti-ram barriers on closed streets.

Other upgrades include routine canine patrols at gates, deployed counterterrorism officers and mounted police units, and security collaboration with law enforcement, including increased police resources, regular exercises and drills, trainings for internal personnel and quality assurance on tactical strategies.

Local civic leaders also shared their testimonials in regards to the Phillies’ security and safety efforts at Citizens Bank Park:

“I am pleased the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has approved the Philadelphia Phillies’ application for a SAFETY Act designation. This designation highlights the Phillies’ commitment to ensuring fans who come to Citizens Bank Park are able to enjoy America’s pastime in a safe environment,” said United States Senator Pat Toomey.

“The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is quite impressed with the efforts the Phillies have undertaken to keep its fans, players and employees safe,” said Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf.

“The Phillies understand and fully embrace the importance of taking every possible measure to provide the safest environment at their facility. I applaud their commitment,” said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.

The goal of the SAFETY Act is to encourage the development and deployment of effective anti-terrorism products and services.