A release was sent out this morning providing details about new building policies for all events at Blue Cross Arena going forward, changes that really shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone.
The building is now smoke free (smoking area has been eliminated), metal detectors will be used upon entry along with bag restrictions. These are all policies that follow trends and have already been in place at arenas throughout the country.
Help spread the word to those who go to events so there aren’t any surprises or inconveniences at the first game.
Here’s the details:
(Rochester, NY) … The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial, in conjunction with Pegula Sports and Entertainment, announced new security policies and amenities designed to enhance the overall safety and fan experience beginning with the 2018-19 season.
“We strive to make it a priority every season to improve the overall safety of our fans while providing the best experience possible, said Rob Minter, vice president of business operations for the Rochester Americans and The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial. “Having these new policies in place, in addition to the ongoing improvements within the venue, will allow us to accomplish both as we enter yet another exciting season in downtown Rochester.
Under the new security changes, the downtown Rochester venue will now be a smoke-free facility. In becoming a smoke-free facility, there will no longer be designated smoking areas on arena property and fans will not be permitted to smoke on the grounds during any games or events. This also includes the use of electronic tobacco products (including e-cigarettes, Nicotine inhalers, etc.).
New for this season, The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial will begin to employ the use of metal detectors upon entry, where all patrons will be subject to hand-held metal detector screenings for all events at the venue.
In addition, The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial will also be enforcing a restriction on bags entering the building. Only personal bags, such as medical and/or diaper bags and purses, will be permitted in the venue. All personal bags must be inspected upon entry. Bags should be soft-sided and must completely fit under your seat without blocking the aisle. Backpacks, coolers, duffel bags and briefcases are strictly prohibited.
The change in policies reflect local and national trends at sports venues and are in response to an overwhelming number of fan requests.
As announced last week, the arena will undergo a series of improvements, with installation currently underway for a brand-new state-of-the-art videoboard. The new board, designed and developed by Daktronics, will feature four 10-foot, high definition panels fully equipped with LED lighting. Other upgrades include enhancements to the audio and video equipment to maximize fan experience, as well as plans for expansion along the Exchange Blvd. side that will make room for additional office space and improved locker room facilities.
For more information, please visit www.bluecrossarena.com or call 585-454-5335.
About The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial
Owned by the City of Rochester and operated by Pegula Sports and Entertainment, The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial is downtown Rochester’s premier sports and entertainment venue. Located just off the bank of the Genesee River, the multi-purpose facility is the primary home to the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League (AHL), and plays host to some of the world’s top concerts, sporting events and other attractions. Since opening its doors back in 1955, The Blue Cross Arena has welcomed more than 400,000 guests each year. The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial is also home to the National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) Rochester Knighthawks, and has been the site of several high-profile sporting events, including the 1957 and 2000 AHL All-Star Classic, four NLL Finals and NHL preseason games.
About Pegula Sports and Entertainment
Pegula Sports and Entertainment (PSE) is a management company that streamlines key business areas across all Pegula family-owned sports and entertainment properties including the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bandits, Rochester Americans, HarborCenter, Black River Entertainment, ADPRO Sports, PicSix Creative agency and numerous hospitality properties. PSE aims to be a leader in the sports and entertainment industry by bringing together the individual resources, capabilities and talents of each of its entities to create a cohesive and sustainable brand that together represents the Pegula family’s interest. PSE’s mission is exemplified by its One Buffalo initiative, which unites Western New York and serves as a representation of teamwork through a deeper connection between Buffalo sports teams, fans and the community.
