(CBS DETROIT) – From the Detroit Auto Show to the appearance of the Detroit Lions and Pistons, downtown Detroit will be busy this weekend.
Outside of the 2024 NFL draft, this weekend could be one of the busiest as fans and businesses say they’re prepared, and Detroit police say they’re ready.
“I’m 62 years old. No, I’ve never seen this city happen like this,” said Lions fan Terry Price.
Lions fan Michael Banks is big for the Lions this year and he believes they will win it all.
“It’s going to be hype because the Lions are about to make history with our first Super Bowl. This is our year. I believe it in my heart, so let’s go,” Banks said.
Local businesses, like Buddy’s Pizza, say they’ve prepared for the crowds.
“Basically we started as soon as we heard who they were playing,” manager Mark Kuberacki said. “You have to lead them here, get your pizzas. Even the lions love it.”
Detroit Police Chief Matthew Fulgenzi says security has been beefed up this weekend and wants to assure fans who stop by that local, state and federal authorities are all on deck.
‘We have expanded the workforce. Guests who come downtown, you’ll see a number of uniform officers all over downtown… Undercover officers that you won’t see assisting, providing real-time information and then utilizing the real-time crime center, the best in the United States” , Fulgenzi said.
Police say there are no street closures, but are encouraging people to give themselves extra time to get downtown.