Officials have unveiled the security plans for the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, outlining restricted areas and safety measures to ensure a smooth and secure event. The convention, scheduled for August 19-22, will primarily take place at McCormick Place and the United Center.

The security footprint will be implemented at 10 p.m. on August 16 at McCormick Place and at 7 p.m. on August 17 at the United Center. As a "national special security event," the Secret Service will be responsible for safety inside the designated convention area, while the Chicago police will oversee safety outside the perimeter.

Within the security footprints surrounding the United Center and McCormick Place, there will be two layers of security. One part will be solely for pedestrians, and a smaller area will allow vehicles but under screening protocols. Vehicles entering the screening areas must pass through designated checkpoints.

Access to the pedestrian-restricted zones will be limited to convention attendees, staff, workers, volunteers, and public safety officials, ensuring a controlled and monitored environment. These precautions come in the wake of heightened concerns for safety following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

Top officials, including Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, expressed confidence in the DNC's planning, which has been in progress for over a year. The specifics of the security footprints had been kept confidential until now, although efforts were made to inform residents living in the affected areas.

Months ago, teams composed of Secret Service personnel, FBI employees, and representatives from various city departments began canvassing neighborhoods around McCormick Place and the United Center. The goal was to reach out and provide information to affected businesses and organizations within the footprint boundaries. Over 900 members of the public, representing more than 500 organizations and businesses, have been contacted.

Derek Mayer, deputy special agent in charge, emphasized the objective of effectively communicating the security plan to minimize confusion. Consequently, multiple channels have been utilized to inform and engage with the local community.

In addition to addressing security measures, the city has been involved in legal disputes with social justice groups seeking to protest near the convention site. The Coalition to March on DNC filed a federal lawsuit against the city after their permit applications were denied, leading the city to offer alternative protest routes. These alternative routes have been subject to negotiations, with the coalition advocating for longer and wider routes to accommodate a projected attendance of nearly 50,000 demonstrators.

As preparations for the DNC continue, more updates and developments are expected. Stay tuned for the latest information regarding the convention's security measures and related events.