Milwaukee River Security Tightened For Republican National Convention

A U.S. Coast Guard small response boat crosses Milwaukee Harbor on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis. (AP Photo/Mark Vancleave)

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Security measures have intensified along the Milwaukee River this week during the Republican National Convention, with patrol boats and heavily armed officers now a common sight. The unique challenge of securing the winding waterways near the Fiserv Center RNC convention site has led to around-the-clock patrols by roughly half a dozen police departments, state and federal agencies.

U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Joe Neff emphasized the dedication of the officers working long shifts to prioritize public safety. The Coast Guard allowed journalists on board a 29-foot boat typically used for search-and-rescue operations to observe the security operations near the convention site.

A significant portion of the river has been closed to commercial and recreational traffic, with exceptions made for residents living on the river. The patrols, which include vessels from various law enforcement agencies, are part of an extensive security plan developed over the past year.

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman highlighted the high level of security in place, particularly around former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee. Despite the tight security, no major incidents have been reported on the water during the convention.

Multiple police departments, state, and federal agencies collaborate for enhanced security.

Patrol boats and armed officers monitor Milwaukee River during Republican National Convention.

U.S. Coast Guard leads security efforts, allowing journalists to observe operations.

Significant river portions closed to traffic, exceptions for residents living on the river.

No major incidents reported on the water during the convention.

Patrol boats depart from Coast Guard facility on Lake Michigan for security monitoring.

The patrol boats depart from a Coast Guard facility on Lake Michigan, navigating through the river at reduced speeds to monitor the downtown area and ensure the security of the convention site. Crews are vigilant for any suspicious activity and unauthorized vessels in the secure zone.

During one patrol, a mysterious object floating in the water was investigated and turned out to be a harmless nylon tarp. The cooperation between agencies this week has allowed the Coast Guard to maintain its regular public safety duties alongside the heightened security measures for the convention.

Coast Guard Lt. Phillip Gurtler emphasized that despite the focus on the RNC, search and rescue operations and other public safety tasks have not been neglected. The coordinated efforts of multiple agencies have ensured comprehensive security coverage throughout the event.