INDIANAPOLIS — As Indianapolis gears up to host the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game on July 18-19, city leaders and public safety officials are holding a public safety and traffic briefing to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for fans.
Mayor Joe Hogsett emphasized the significance of the event for Indianapolis: "Our city is once again stepping into the global spotlight, but this is nothing new for us. We are more familiar with the world's attention now than at any time in our city's history. After all, we have been hosting the world's largest single-day sporting event, the Indianapolis 500, for over a century."
He adds, "This coming weekend, we will once again remind the world why this is basketball country. Our top priority this weekend is safety."
SECURITY
Officials confirm that security measures at Gainbridge Fieldhouse will appear familiar to regular attendees. Bag policies and ticket scanning procedures will remain the same. However, enhancements have been made, including the introduction of soft ticketing checkpoints around the fieldhouse, mirroring the security setup from the recent NBA Finals.
To access Bicentennial Plaza four hours before events on Friday and Saturday, fans must show their tickets. The plaza will be open to the public all day.
TRAFFIC/STREET CLOSURES
To facilitate the influx of visitors, certain road closures will be in effect:
- A portion of Georgia Street and the south end of Monument Circle will close from Wednesday through Sunday.
- Delaware Street will experience closures on parts of Friday and Saturday.
Attendees can explore more than 73,000 parking options available by visiting downtownindy.org/parking."
**Below are the scheduled road closures ahead of this weekend’s events**
IMPD
Chief Chris Bailey of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department outlines several safety measures:
- IMPD will utilize mobile trailer cameras, public safety cameras, and staff the Real-Time Crime Center with detectives and analysts.
- Drones will be deployed overhead for added surveillance (note: personal drones are not allowed).
- Chief Bailey advises fans that ongoing construction may impact traffic flow and urges everyone to arrive early and remain patient.
- For live updates, follow @impdnews on social media.
- Multiple agencies will be on hand during the events, and community members can opt-in for public safety updates by texting "ALL STAR 25" to 67283.
IFD
The Indianapolis Fire Department will ensure that all temporary tents and vendors comply with permitting and inspections. Fire Department personnel will also be present during the fireworks shows on Friday and Saturday nights, while code enforcement teams check bars for occupancy regulations.
