WEST NEW YORK, WEEHAWKEN, AND BEYOND – The Grand Prix of America at Port Imperial will utilize the software and consulting services of Regal Decision Systems to support its inaugural race planned for June 2013 on a 3.2-mile circuit in Weehawken and West New York. Software developed in a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security simulates evacuation plans and patron movement for any stadium, arena, school, or sporting complex. The software executes simulations based upon unique threat scenarios by utilizing validated algorithms for processing crowd behavior.
The software, known as SportEvac, has been used to support high-profile sports teams and venues, including The Baltimore Ravens, Washington Redskins, New York Giants, and Indianapolis 500. It has also been used for evacuation planning at such events as the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, and in support of the U.S. Border Patrol and the Transportation Security Administration.
“Safety is the number one concern, of course, but we also want to maximize our spectators’ experience and comfort,” said Rich Aschenbach, director of public safety for Grand Prix of America at Port Imperial.
As far as any sort of evacuation, good luck on that one. To evacuate the entire area or any part of it crowd control is going to have to be set up for many streets around the region. That begs the question, just how many residents are going to be inconvenienced on race day and even a few days prior to race day? Enquiring minds want to know.