‘Proactive not reactive’: Rosemont to install walk-through metal detectors at Allstate Arena

After deploying walk-through metal detectors for the first time at outdoor concerts this summer, Rosemont officials plan to roll them out in the coming weeks at the Allstate Arena.

That could be just in time for the big crowds expected for Garth Brooks’ return to town Sept. 10-13.

A dozen of the Evolv Express Gen2 single-lane detectors will be set up at all entrances to the stadium, officials said. The technology is increasingly standard at sporting events, concerts and other entertainment venues.

For years, security guards at the village-owned arena have used only hand-held metal detector wands.

“We’re just trying to be proactive not reactive, and most of the facilities around here have them,” said Mayor Brad Stephens, who added that the wands will still be used for a secondary check if something is detected from the walk-through units.

Venues that use the Evolv scanners — where you don’t have to empty your pockets of cellphones, keys and loose change — include Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, Rivers Casino and Six Flags Great America. Some Disney theme parks also utilize the devices.

“The use of these walk-through detectors will improve the accuracy of detection and speed of processing individuals,” said Lt. Joe Balogh of the Rosemont Public Safety Department, which has been coordinating the project with Allstate Arena management.

In light of the growing crowds that come to Rosemont’s weekly Rockin’ in the Park summer concert series, village officials decided to set up three security checkpoints with magnetometers at Parkway Bank Park in May. The detectors, which are only used in the entertainment district during the 20-show concert series, are portable and can be used elsewhere.

Balogh said the plan is to rotate the ones from Parkway Bank Park to the Rosemont Theatre and Donald E. Stephens Convention Center when needed.

The devices already are used for adjudication hearings in the village hall board room.

Village officials paid DSI Security Services $1.1 million for the newest machines, which are expected to be delivered in the next four to six weeks.

cplacek@dailyherald.com