ST. PAUL, Minn. - Minnesota's citizen soldiers are being activated to protect visitors and state residents during the festivities that culminate in Super Bowl LII.
Governor Mark Dayton issued an executive order Tuesday mobilizing the Minnesota National Guard from Friday, January 26 through Monday, February 5. The Guard will assist the efforts of local law enforcement across the Twin Cities metro under the leadership of the Minneapolis Police Department. Guardsmen will enhance public safety, traffic control, security for key venues and infrastructure, security for public transportation, and other public safety responsibilities.
“Under the Governor's Executive Order, the Minnesota National Guard will take the necessary steps to help protect the lives, property, and security of Minnesotans and visitors during Super Bowl LII,” said Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General Jon Jensen. “We are committed to working with local law enforcement to support their efforts for a safe and successful event.”
Costs to the state associated with the activation of the National Guard will be covered by the Minnesota Super Bowl Host Committee. Requests for assistance from the National Guard are routine for the Super Bowl, and have been made for almost every Super Bowl since 2002. Governor Dayton's executive order follows a years-long planning process between local law enforcement and all levels of government, coordinated by the City of Minneapolis.
