The Canton Police Department is reminding residents and visitors that the city’s juvenile curfew ordinances will be strictly enforced throughout Pro Football Hall of Fame festivities, with additional security measures planned for First Friday events in downtown Canton.
Police Chief John Gabbard announced that enforcement efforts on Friday, Aug. 7, will focus on the downtown First Friday celebration and the Hall of Fame Grand Parade pre-parade route along Cleveland Avenue NW. Officers will maintain a significant law enforcement presence throughout the evening.
Under the city’s curfew ordinance, parents and guardians of unsupervised juveniles found in violation of the curfew after 11 p.m. along the parade route could face citations.
Within Canton’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), which includes much of downtown and Centennial Plaza, the juvenile curfew begins at 9 p.m.
To enhance public safety during First Friday activities at Centennial Plaza, the city is implementing several security measures:
- Centennial Plaza will be enclosed with temporary fencing similar to setups used for ticketed concerts, although admission to the free event will not require a ticket.
- Entry points will be staffed by security personnel using magnetometers.
- Unaccompanied minors will not be allowed inside the gated area.
- Standard event restrictions, including prohibitions on weapons, coolers and other prohibited items, will be enforced.
Police also reminded the public of the following curfew times:
- 9 p.m.: Curfew within the downtown DORA, including Centennial Plaza.
- 11 p.m.: Curfew in all other applicable areas, including the Hall of Fame Grand Parade route.
“Our goal is to provide a safe, family-friendly environment where residents and visitors can enjoy these signature community events,” Gabbard said in a statement. “These safety measures and curfew enforcement efforts are intended to protect our youth, support parents and guardians, and reduce disruptions so everyone can enjoy Hall of Fame weekend.”
The Canton Police Department said it appreciates the cooperation of residents, visitors, parents and event attendees in helping ensure Hall of Fame festivities remain safe and successful for everyone.
