By Pat Culverhouse

A pair of parades scheduled to wind through Minden streets Saturday, Feb. 15 will be under close scrutiny by local agencies to ensure the safety of both participants and anticipated crowds.

Officials from the Minden Police Department, Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security, Ward Marshal’s Office and the City of Minden met Thursday to organize a security game plan for the MLK Black History Parade/Youth Rally and Mardi Gras parades, both scheduled the same day.

Plans include closing nearly 40 city street intersections along the parade routes, securing major intersections with obstacles to discourage potential vehicle intrusion and traffic control once the events are completed.

Routes to redirect traffic during parades have also been outlined, and exit routes after the parades have ended have been identified. Plans also have been made to ensure all agencies are on the same radio frequencies.

“One thing to remember is the tragedy that occurred in New Orleans was after the parade had ended. We would want to focus on what we need to do to maintain a presence for a period of time after these are over,” said Brian Williams, Webster Parish Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said his department, in conjunction with Homeland Security and the Sheriff’s Office, could provide drone coverage of the parades to add another layer of security.

“This would give us a different view of things…it would allow us to see the areas that are congested and might need extra patrolling,” he said.

Officers in marked cars will be manning intersections, and side-by-sides from city police and Homeland Security will be constantly monitoring the parades. First responders will also be on hand at the staging area at Minden Presbyterian Church’s parking lot on Broadway.

“We want to be sure our presence is known,” McIver said.