MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - In the wake of the recent terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, the city of Mobile is considering ways to enhance pedestrian safety at large events.
With Mardi Gras drawing near, Mobile City Council members on Tuesday will consider buying portable bollard systems with a trailer for the Mobile Police Department.
The council will consider spending nearly $167,400 to buy the barrier system from Delta Scientific Corp.
In a statement released today, Executive Director of Public Safety Rob Lasky said, "After evaluating several options, we are requesting that the Mobile City Council approve the purchase of 18 TB100 portable bollards, which will provide enhanced crowd control and protection against potential threats.
"During the 2025 Carnival Season, we also plan to utilize portable barricades and security assets from other communities that Mobile has partnered with in the past. These are just a few of the many steps that Mayor Stimpson and our public safety leaders are taking to protect Mobilians and visitors during the upcoming Mardi Gras season and beyond," Lasky said.
The move comes after Shamsud-Din Jabbar crashed his truck through crowds of people on Bourbon Street in New Orleans before opening fire early on New Year's Day. Fourteen people died and dozens more were injured in the attack.
During the this year's Mardi Gras season, Mobile plan to use portable barricades and security assets from other communities with which the city has partnered in the past, according to Lasky.