Stringent security plans ready for All-Star Game

Increased measures are in place from when the city last hosted the game.
PITTSBURGH (AP) -- The All-Star game isn't coming to Pittsburgh until July 11, but city residents will notice some security measures by the middle of next week.
More than 50 local, federal and state agencies are being brought in to provide a level of security far more stringent that when the city last held the All-Star Game in 1994.
Most security measures will be in place before pre-game activities begin July 7.
"To say that the planning for that [1994 game] pales in comparison to this would be an absolute understatement," said city Emergency Medical Services Chief Robert McCaughan. "In this post-9/11 world, everybody's raised the bar in more ways that people can imagine."
Fifty-four agencies will assist city officials, ranging from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to Norfolk Southern Railway's Police Department.
Boating restrictions
Because PNC Park is located along the Allegheny River, certain boating restrictions will be enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard. Kayaks and other small, non-motorized boats will be allowed in the water near the shore, but larger, motorized boats will be directed to areas farther from the ballpark.
Boats will not be allowed to dock near PNC Park during All-Star activities.
Some roads near PNC Park and other venues that will host All-Star events, such as the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, will be closed or restricted as early as Wednesday so vendors and other officials can have access.
Scalpers will be restricted to a certain area and a state law capping the resale value will be enforced. To prevent fans from getting ripped off by counterfeits, a scanner will be available outside the ballpark so fans can determine whether tickets are real or fake.
On game day, fans can expect metal detectors and bag searches.
"My one word of caution is they should get to the ballpark early," said Kevin Hallinan, senior vide president of security for Major League Baseball.
Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.