JSO promises tighter security for Georgia-Florida

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On Saturday, more than 83,0000 college football fans are expected to flood downtown for the Georgia-Florida game at EverBank Field.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said with the influx of people, security will be heightened with undercover and uniformed officers patrolling the area to make sure things do not get out of hand. They will also be issuing citations to those drinking underage.

With more than 83,000 people expected to be in Downtown Jacksonville for the Georgia Florida game at Everbank Field, the Sheriff's Office wants to make sure everyone has a great time and stays safe.

That's why it's set up Safety Zones this year, in addition to undercover and uniformed officers patrolling the area.

Six safety zones locations, times:

  • Georgia-Florida Welcome Center at Lot K next to Metropolitan Park, open Friday to midnight Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Inside The Jacksonville Landing: All day Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday, and reopen from noon to 2 a.m. Saturday.
  • Outside The Jacksonville Landing: corner of Laura Street and Independent Drive, open Friday from 6 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., reopens from noon Saturday to 2:30 a.m. Sunday.
  • The Shipyards on Bay Street, across from Maxwell House Coffee, open Friday from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Saturday from noon-10 p.m.
  • Touchdown Showdown, outside EverBank Field's south end zone, open Saturday from 10 a.m. until the end of the game.
  • RV City, open all day Friday through 3 a.m. Saturday and reopens from noon Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday.

Safety Zones are staffed with rescue personnel and have access to taxis, cell phone chargers, telephones, computers, first aid and local maps. They are also stocked with complimentary water, coffee and snacks. 

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Due to all of the fans downtown, there will be road closures and changes in traffic patterns.

  • Near The Jacksonville Landing, Hogan Street from Water Street to the river will be closed until 11 p.m. Sunday.
  • Pearl Street from Water Street to the river will also be closed during that time, as well as Coastline Drive from The Landing to Newnan Street.

About the Author:

Emmy-nominated journalist Kristin Cason joined the News 6 team in June 2016.