KINGSTON, RI – November 8, 2017 – Providing a safe, engaging and fun environment for all fans is a top priority for the University of Rhode Island and Spectra by Comcast Spectacor, operators of the Thomas M. Ryan Center. For the 2017-18 season, we will enhance our preventive security measures for the safety of all guests, teams, and staff and introduce new parking arrangements that align with the new Kingston campus parking initiatives.
“The safety of every person who enters the Ryan Center is always priority number one. Providing security measures in our arena is a topic we regularly discuss and review with the University of Rhode Island Police Department and Athletic Department. We ask our patrons to plan accordingly to avoid traffic and long lines as we roll out these new procedures. We appreciate your patience as we continue to improve our security measures for the safe and enjoyable experience for everyone” said General Manager, Leah Becki.
The new security measures will include screenings with metal detecting wands at every arena entrance. To accommodate this new measure, patrons are asked to arrive early to all events at the Ryan Center so that they have ample time to enter. Due to the limited lobby spacing inside the Ryan Center, it was determined that metal detection wanding was the most efficient security measure. Metal detection is becoming a standard in the industry, occurring at many collegiate and professional arenas and stadiums, including the Mullins Center at the University of Massachusetts and Chaifetz Arena at Saint Louis University, both also members of the Atlantic 10 Conference. The metal detecting wands, previously utilized at numerous Ryan Center events, are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, will have no adverse effects on medical implants, pregnancy, recording media or magnetic strips. In addition, we would like to reiterate that the bag policy for the Ryan Center has not changed for the 2017-18 season.
“The safety and well-being of our student-athletes and fans are of utmost importance to us, in today’s environment we believe this new procedure is an important requirement for these purposes. Be sure to arrive early to be in your seat before tip-off said Director of Athletics, Thorr Bjorn.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early, especially for events such as concerts and URI men’s basketball games. We ask that fans remove outerwear and accessories such as cell phones and unzip jackets as they approach the entrance. Fans can continue to wear hats, belts, shoes, and jewelry as they are scanned with the metal detecting wands, but are encouraged to remove all items from pockets and hold them in their hands as they are scanned. All fans are asked to leave prohibited items such as knives, any weapons, alcohol and selfie sticks at home. In addition, to avoid long lines patrons are encouraged to use all available entrances. For a full list of prohibited items please go to www.theryancenter.com or www.gorhody.com.
“Working with Spectra by Comcast Spectacor and looking at the overall scope of security measures across the country, we know this security enhancement is important and a necessary preventive measure. Still don’t forget, If you See Something, Say Something,” said Steve Baker, director of Public Safety for the University of Rhode Island.
In addition to enhanced security measures, there will be new parking procedures in place this season. These new parking arrangements are consistent with the new parking initiative the University rolled out this year. All general event public parking for the Ryan Center will be located at the Plains Road Lot.
The University, URI Athletics, and the Ryan Center appreciate everyone’s patience as we implement these enhanced security measures and parking arrangements. We look forward to another safe and successful year on the campus of URI. For additional information please visit www.theryancenter.com, www.gorhody.com or call the Ryan Center Box Office at (401) 874-RAMS (7267) or email at info@theryancenter.com.
Venue Management
Spectra’s Venue Management division is the industry leader across a full range of services that impact the bottom-line success of public assembly venues, including marketing and sales, event booking, ticket services and box office management, customer service, operations and engineering, and finance and administration.
About Spectra
Spectra by Comcast Spectacor is an industry leader in hosting and entertainment, partnering with clients to create memorable experiences for millions of visitors every year. Spectra’s unmatched blend of integrated services delivers incremental value for clients through several primary areas of expertise: Venue Management, Food Services & Hospitality, and Partnerships. Learn more at SpectraExperiences.com.
About Comcast Spectacor
Comcast Spectacor is part of Comcast Corporation, a global media and technology company that operates Comcast Cable and NBCUniversal. Comcast Spectacor’s three core businesses are the National Hockey League’s Philadelphia Flyers, the Wells Fargo Center Complex, and Spectra, a hosting and entertainment firm specializing in Venue Management, Food Services & Hospitality, and Partnerships. Learn more at ComcastSpectacor.com.
CONTACT: Spectra by Comcast Spectacor
Thomas M.Ryan Center
Erica Skubis
Marketing Manager
401-788-3014 / eskubis@theryancenter.com