Enhanced Security in Effect for Preakness

Safety and security procedures in place since 2002 will once again be implemented for this year's 132 Preakness Stakes (gr. I) on May 20, the Maryland Jockey Club announced Tuesday.

The same restrictions will be in place the preceding day when the Pimlico Special (gr. I) and Black Eyed Susan (gr. II) are to be run.

"We continue to work closely with our partners in federal, state and local enforcement throughout the year to evaluate and address these important issues," said Joseph A. De Francis, MJC's chief executive officer.

The 2006 guidelines include limitations on the items that fans may bring onto the Pimlico grounds, including the grandstand and clubhouse facility and thenfield. The additional security measures are designed to allow fans to enjoy Maryland's biggest racing events in a safe and secure environment with a minimum of inconvenience, the MJC said in a press release.

Two significant changes in traffic patterns will be as follows:

* Rogers Avenue will be closed to all vehicle traffic from Winner Avenue to Northern Parkway from 10 p.m. on May 19 until 9 p.m. on May 20th.
* Winner Avenue will remain two-way from Rogers Avenue to Northern Parkway until 5 p.m. on May 20.

The Preakness ranks as one of the largest single-day sporting events in the country with over 100,000 attending six of the last seven years, including a record 115,318 a year ago.

A full list of restricted and barred items and traffic flow information is available at the Pimlico Web site.