Railyard staff won't expand the space before the game. Before the 11 a.m. kickoff, patrons will only be allowed to eat and drink inside the confines of the Railyard.

Once the game begins, they will be allowed to move freely within a closed stretch of Canopy Street adjacent to the Railyard until 9 p.m.

As many as eight Lincoln police officers will monitor the area, in addition to the presence of private security guards, Katy Martin of Hurrdat told the council.

Most of the additional police officers will direct and control traffic, and the first home game of the season always carries the potential for new logistical challenges, Bliemeister said.

Another department priority will be to have its extra officers working in the North Bottoms neighborhood, ready to crack down on alcohol-related issues north of Memorial Stadium, where police have previously busted out-of-control, underage drinking parties.

Early games such as the South Alabama game will bring people to the area early in the morning, creating the potential for problems, he said.

"I would anticipate (that) before the first light, the tailgating will start," Bliemeister said.

Reach the writer at 402-473-2657 or rjohnson@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSRileyJohnson.

Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0

Get Election 2020 & Politics updates in your inbox! Keep up on the latest in national and local politics as Election 2020 comes into focus. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.