Salt Bowl Safety

This year we celebrate half a century of Benton versus Bryant football, and every year it just gets better and better! In the beginning, the Saline County rivals ended their respective football seasons playing each other at alternating locations, Bryant Hornet Stadium and C.W. Lewis Stadium. In those days the stands were packed, and seating was a very “in my personal space,” shoulder-to-shoulder situation. 

Going to the concession stand or the restroom was no easy task! 2000 was the first year the Panthers and Hornets locked helmets at War Memorial Stadium, and along with the size of the venue, this epic competition has grown in community participation, athleticism, and enthusiasm along with new opportunities to improve the event that brings us all together as Saline Countians.   

This year is no exception, with an emphasis on gameday safety and convenience regarding traffic flow and parking. Heightened security measures have been in place for a few years now, with protocol basically the same as SEC college football games. This year’s new initiatives derive from a team of experts who initially met the second week of June and began meeting weekly as of the first week in July. They will continue meeting each week until game day.

The security team includes the Mayors from both cities, the Saline County Sheriff’s Department, Benton and Bryant Police Departments, Student Resource Officers from both schools, Little Rock Police, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, Arkansas Park Rangers, State Police and Emergency Management, War Memorial Security Teams, and school and community leaders. 

Some existing policies will remain the same, but new enhancements will ensure that the Salt Bowl is a fun, safe and family-oriented event that is uniquely ours.

Just as in years past, law enforcement will patrol the concourse throughout the evening and the clear bag policy and rule against loitering in the concourse will be strictly enforced. But according to Mayor Tom Farmer, safety is rising to a new level. “Both school administrations agree with a “no tolerance rule.” This basically means if a school administrator asks a student to get into the stands, they will be expected to get into the stands and not wander around the stadium. 

There will be no gathering under the stadium, especially around the concession areas. The only time to go under the bleachers is to use the restroom or to get some refreshments. It is not a spot to gather for social means. The stands will be the gathering place with friends where everyone can enjoy the ballgame and be able to get a Coke without having to walk around a group of people.”  

According to Captain Eric Haworth with the Benton Police Department, the focus of concern in the past has been issues with students’ behavior that leaned more on the administrative infraction side of school rules rather than actual laws being broken. “This year we are adding school officials able to respond to issues within the game. The school officials have been given the authority to enforce administrative infractions on the spot. In the instance a law has been broken and it isn’t merely a school issue, the law enforcement officer will be able to step in.” 

In addition, metal detectors will be in place, so fans are encouraged to arrive early to ensure that security can thoroughly process everyone through the gates before kickoff. When asked about any behaviors that should be reported to administrators or law enforcement, Captain Haworth emphasized the need to be aware.

 “As always, any behavior that looks suspicious, causes alarm, or disrupts attendees’ ability to enjoy and watch the game should be brought to the attention of any law enforcement officer. Also, any medical emergency should also be reported as soon as possible so we can get that person the treatment they require quickly.”

Another concern is traffic flow. Captain Haworth has led the charge to develop a schematic to easily explain traffic flow and the best routes in and out of the stadium, including the entrances from Pine Street, South University, West Markham, and Jonesboro Drive. “Also, be aware the chain link fencing around the stadium’s perimeter will remain erected and used from the previous day’s Razorback game,” says Haworth.

Another perennial concern is the weather. Let’s face it, we’re in Arkansas, so the weather is completely unpredictable. But measures are being taken to prepare as well as possible. Captain Haworth explains, “We’re holding the game later to hopefully help with the issue of the heat, but it is still August in Arkansas, so plan to be hot until the sun goes down. We encourage everyone to drink plenty of water before game day and monitor yourself and your loved ones throughout the game. There will be cooling stations available should the need arise.”

Mayor Farmer and the safety team are working hard to fill the stadium for the 2024 Salt Bowl. “We expect this year to be about setting record attendance for the Salt Bowl. We want to break the existing record of around 35,000 people in attendance. To do this, everyone must feel safe, and that is the reason both the Benton and Bryant Police Departments are putting forth the effort to provide the same safe feeling fans have at a home athletic event.”