Stampede Rolling Out New Security Operations Centre

The Calgary Stampede is ramping up safety measures ahead of the festival, unveiling a new Stampede Park Operations Centre that will coordinate security, medical response, crowd management, and weather monitoring in real time.

The operations centre, showcased to media on Tuesday, brings together first responders, an on-site meteorologist, and other agencies in one co-located space. The park currently has around 500 cameras year-round; another 100 will be added for Stampede. Everything from crowd movement and transportation to event operations and weather will be continuously monitored.

Director of Public Safety and Environment Kerrie Blizard said co-locating all agencies allows faster, more coordinated response. "Having us co-located, able to see the same information, hear the same information at the same time, just allows us to react that much more quickly and with that much more coordination," Blizard said.

Operational adjustments include rebalancing music lineups across venues, increased security at all entrances, enhanced screening, and additional training. Calgary police will deploy a second temporary district dedicated to major festivals and music tents that draw large crowds and serve alcohol—each district with its own commander, dispatcher, officers, and emergency operation center.

Officers will work alongside Alberta Sheriffs, Tsuut'ina Nation Police Service, and the Blood Tribe Police Service. Transit peace officers will also increase presence at high-platform stations like Erlton Stampede and Kirby. An additional 34 peace officers have been added within the last six months.

Attendees are encouraged to report suspicious activity by speaking to officers on the grounds, calling 403-266-1234, or dialing 911.