With the Philadelphia Eagles fans known for their out-of-control celebrations, New Orleans citizens have taken unprecedented action on the city’s famous Bourbon Street in case the NFL team wins Super Bowl LIX.
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According to New Orleans-based news outlet NOLA.com, residents and shop owners are taking multiple safety measures across the city, especially on Bourbon Street. One measure is greasing the poles with Vaseline to prevent Philadelphia Eagles fans from climbing.
The media outlet further pointed out that the safety measure is also used during the annual Mardi Gras parade.
New Orleans Police Department spokesperson Barry Fletcher pointed out that law enforcement is not greasing the poles. “The city of New Orleans does not grease street light poles,” he confirmed. “However, it is very common for building owners to grease balcony support poles.”
They greased the poles on Bourbon St. Go Birds. pic.twitter.com/ZY08fqJcaq
— John Foley (@2008Philz) February 9, 2025
The greasing of the poles in New Orleans comes two weeks after a devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan died after they fell from a light pole while celebrating the team’s NFC Championship win.
The deceased Eagles fan has been identified as Temple University student-athlete Tyler Sabapathy. He was 18 years old and was a member of the university’s recreation gymnastics team. Sabapathy fell while climbing a pole as he and dozens of other Philadelphia Eagles fans celebrated the team’s 55-23 NFC Championship win.
After falling off the pole, Sabapathy hit his head on the sidewalk. He was hospitalized with a brain injury and died two days later.
Multiple Philadelphia Eagles fans were arrested and cited during the postgame celebration. A car also drove through a crowd of fans, and gunshots were heard.
The Philadelphia Eagles will take on the Kansas City Chiefs during Super Bowl LIX. The teams previously played against each other during LVII, where the Chiefs won 38-35.
New Orleans Boosts Security for Super Bowl LIX Following Deadly New Year’s Day Attack
Meanwhile, New Orleans has increased its security presence on Bourbon Street following the deadly New Year’s Day attack. The tragedy left 14 people dead and dozens injured.
NBC News reported approximately 3,000 officers from agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the Louisiana State Police. All law enforcement are being stationed throughout the French Quarter and surrounding areas.
New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick revealed that Bourbon Street would be closed to traffic from at least 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. in light of the New Year’s Day attack. She pointed out that the decision to close off the street to vehicles during the Super Bowl came after meeting with French Quarter business owners.
“You’ll see more and more restrictions as more tourists come into town to enjoy our fabulous city,” Kirkpatrick explained during a press conference. “No traffic will be allowed, and we are going to be blocking every single intersection that feeds into Bourbon Street.”
Bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues along Bourbon Street will remain open during Super Bowl LIX.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry announced checkpoints will be set up throughout the French Quarter. Law enforcement will search people for explosive materials and other dangerous items.
“We must prioritize the safety of every single visitor and resident in the city,” Landry stated. “These security measures were put in place to balance the security of everyone with the freedoms we all enjoy in this country.”
More than 100,000 visitors are expected in New Orleans during this year’s game.