Security tightened at arenas, harbors

By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer

With the state's threat-alert status at code orange, or "high risk," residents are being advised that heightened security measures are in place at many public locations.

At the Neal Blaisdell Center, event patrons are asked not to bring backpacks, briefcases, hand bags or other personal carrying containers larger than small purses or fanny packs. All larger bags may be subject to search and owners may be asked to take them off site as a condition of entry.

City officials said there is no check-in facility for baggage or containers at the Blaisdell.

At the Waikiki Shell, coolers larger than 18 inches in length are not allowed inside. Only backrests are allowed for the lawn seating area.

The state Department of Transportation announced that the Aloha Tower observation deck will be closed to the public while passenger ships are berthed at Honolulu Harbor's piers 10 and 11.

DOT director Rod Haraga said the decision to close the observation deck was made by the attorney general's office, harbor police and the Department of Land and Natural Resources. He wouldn't say what specific problem an open observation deck would cause.

At the USS Arizona Memorial, the National Park Service is prohibiting purses, handbags, fanny packs, backpacks, camera bags, diaper bags, luggage, and other items that could conceal a weapon. The policy also applies to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park and the USS Missouri Memorial.

Storage space for these items will be available for $2.

Reach Curtis Lum at 525-8025 or culum@honoluluadvertiser.com.