RNC 2024 Milwaukee: Security zone impacts city, residents
2024 Republican National Convention will bring significant changes to the city, from road closures to restricted access; here’s how RNC will impact Milwaukee
The U.S. Secret Service unveiled the security perimeter for the Republican National Convention, which will take place in Milwaukee from July 15-18, 2024.
The perimeter encompasses the area surrounding Fiserv Forum, Baird Center, and Panther Arena, the venues where the RNC events and activities will take place.
What streets will be closed in Milwaukee during the RNC?
Several streets within the security perimeter will be closed, affecting both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Intermittent closures start on July 11 — official closures from July 14 until 1 a.m. on July 19.
Wisconsin Avenue
Kilbourn Avenue
Juneau Avenue
State Street
The security perimeter for the RNC consists of two zones:
Inner perimeter: Restricted area; access is limited to credentialed individuals. This zone, shaded red on the map (pictured), is a more secure area, with access limited to credentialed individuals, such as convention attendees, volunteers, and media. Entry into this zone requires passing through a pedestrian checkpoint with security screenings.
Outer perimeter: Area open to pedestrians, but vehicles must pass through checkpoints. This zone, shaded yellow on the security map, encompasses a wider area and allows pedestrian access with no screening required. Vehicles can enter this zone but must pass through five designated checkpoints marked as black circles on the map (also known as the soft zone).
How will the RNC affect Milwaukee residents?
According to the Secret Service, the plan was created with the intention of “minimizing disruptions to the community as much as possible.”
The security zone includes ten blocks from West Clybourn Street on the south to Cherry Street on the north and about eight blocks from North Water Street on the east to North 9th Street on the west.
These are some of the impacts that residents and businesses in Milwaukee can expect due to the outer security perimeter for the 2024 RNC:
Nearby hotels and event spaces: Access to hotels and event spaces near the perimeter might be limited or controlled.
Business closures: Some businesses have chosen to remain closed during the RNC, while others plan to implement work-from-home options for employees.
Restricted parking: Parking restrictions will be in effect, with certain areas designated as no-parking zones.
Public transportation: Milwaukee County Transit System buses will operate during their normal hours, with some routes impacted by security restrictions.
Deliveries and services: Trash services, mail, and package deliveries will continue, with some schedules shifted to overnight and early morning hours.
Visible increase in law enforcement personnel: There will be a noticeable increase in the presence of law enforcement personnel throughout the city to ensure safety.
Maritime security: There will be no traffic on the Milwaukee River between Cherry Street and Michigan Street from July 14 until the early morning of July 19. Private vessels must contact the Coast Guard for an escort and screening before reentry.
