Safety preparations began long before the biggest games in college basketball tip off with agencies working together for the safety and security of fans and visitors

INDIANAPOLIS – Today, Mayor Joe Hogsett joined Indiana Sports Corp President Patrick Talty, IMPD Chief Tanya Terry, IFD Fire Marshal Division Chief Michael Beard along with other law enforcement and special events officials to discuss the coordinated and comprehensive public safety plans ahead of the NCAA Final Four, Men’s Division I Basketball Championship, and March Madness® festivities happening April 3-6, 2026. 

"Next weekend, Indianapolis will be at the center of the collegiate basketball universe. In addition to the action on the hardwood, our downtown will become a cultural destination with live music, performances, street art, activations, and more,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Thanks to collaborative planning efforts between Indianapolis officials, public safety personnel, and downtown stakeholders, I am looking forward to further cementing our position as a top host city.” 

“Hosting the Men’s Final Four is about delivering a world-class experience where every fan feels safe and welcome,” said Indiana Sports Corp President Patrick Talty. “This level of preparation reflects the strength of our partnerships and Indianapolis’ proven track record as a premier host city. Together, we’re ready to deliver a seamless and unforgettable Final Four.” 

Safety & Security of Fans 

Before, during, and after the Final Four, fans can expect to see more IMPD officers patrolling the downtown area. There will be officers on foot, bicycles, motorcycles, horses, all-terrain vehicles (ATV), and in police cars. 

IMPD has adjusted staffing to ensure all districts, including the Mile Square area are properly staffed. IMPD will continue to work with local, state and federal partners to ensure the safety of tens of thousands of those who will be enjoying Final Four festivities and events. 

“Major events like the Final Four bring incredible energy to our city, and our officers are proud to help make sure everyone can enjoy it safely,” said IMPD Chief Tanya Terry. “You will see a strong and visible presence downtown before, during, and after the games. Our officers are focused on keeping fans and visitors safe while they experience everything Indianapolis has to offer,” added IMPD Chief Tanya Terry. 

Safety measures include using technology to maintain situational awareness and respond to potential suspicious activity. Trailer cameras and other public safety cameras will be utilized to monitor activity throughout downtown. IMPD’s real-time crime center will be operational and staffed with detectives and analysts. 

Additionally, fans may see IMPD drones in the air to enhance safety and give officers another viewpoint. Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) will be in place throughout the weekend. Personally owned drones are not permitted in these restricted areas. 

IMPD will implement strategic traffic management plans around event venues and key streets. This will help ensure efficient transportation for attendees and emergency services. 

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be operating throughout the weekend with representatives from multiple public safety agencies, event partners, and supporting agencies. Representatives will also be at the event venues to ensure coordination and communication. 

Public Safety Tools for Visitors and the Community 

Marion County Emergency Management will roll out its mass notification tool for the NCAA Final Four. The community and visitors are encouraged to text MFF2026 to 67283 to receive public safety messages related to events. This system will only be used to send out important information and once Final Four festivities are over those that registered will be cleared from the system. 

NCAA has also created an app specific to the events. 

“The Men's Final Four Event App presented by AT&T, which launched March 23, is your on-the-go destination for all 2026 Men's Final Four information and will be updated daily during event week,” said Tony Margherio, associate director of marketing and events for the NCAA. “The app provides not only up-to-date information about all the official NCAA fan events, but also provides maps, a customizable schedule, real-time custom alerts, a place to access and manage your tickets, and other information to help make the fan experience the best it can be.” Details on the app can be found here. 

Fans and the community can also view a road closure map and parking information here. Downtown Cleanliness 

To provide operations support for Final Four Weekend, Downtown Indy Alliance (DIA) – the trusted champion, convener, and steward of a dynamic downtown Indianapolis – will mobilize its Clean Team and Safety Ambassadors. With attention to high-visibility areas such as Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Monument Circle, the Clean Team will work extended hours, aligned with major events and activations. 

Alongside the Clean Team, DIA’s Safety Ambassadors, started in 2020 as a public safety and downtown recovery tool, will keep regular foot patrols throughout the Mile Square, serving as a friendly face for hospitality touch points as well as an extra set of eyes and ears for increased public safety. 

“Indianapolis is well-versed in hosting major sporting events and in keeping Downtown safe. As we prepare to welcome visitors, Downtown Indy Alliance is working alongside public safety partners 

to ensure a strong, visible presence on our streets,” said Taylor Schaffer, CEO of Downtown Indy Alliance. “Our Safety Ambassadors, off-duty bike patrol officers, and Clean Team members are out every day helping create a Downtown that is welcoming, well-managed, and ready for everyone. Whether someone needs assistance or a friendly face, our team is there.” 

Visitors will be able to recognize Safety Ambassadors by their themed baseball caps while members of the Clean Team will be wearing jerseys carrying around orange buckets. 

Crowd Management & Capacity 

IFD Deputy Fire Marshals will be on site at various events, moving through the buildings and crowds conducting visual inspections for safety and compliance. Please be mindful that crowd capacity will be monitored and there may be a wait to get in should we get big crowds. 

“I ask that everyone enjoying Final Four festivities respect the barricades and closures throughout downtown and be patient when entering and exiting venues- all of these measures are for your safety,” said IFD Fire Marshal, Deputy Chief Michael Beard. “I am proud of IFD’s work to support this exciting weekend in Indianapolis that is filled with college basketball, music, and more.” 

Inclement Weather 

With many Final Four events taking place outdoors during Indiana’s severe weather season, attendees are encouraged to be weather aware. Marion County Emergency Management is working closely with event partners and the National Weather Service to ensure timely communication about changing conditions. Schedules may be adjusted as needed for safety. 

If shelter is required due to severe weather, people should head to nearby buildings, parking garages, or return to their vehicles depending on the event location. Those who opt in to receive public safety alerts (by texting MFF2024 to 67283) will also receive alerts related to severe weather conditions. Severe weather alerts will also be sent out through MESA’s standard notification system, by texting MESAINDY to 67283.