Appleton considers new safety measure for major events and festivals

APPLETON (WLUK) — Appleton is considering a $1.3 million purchase to beef up its security as the summer festival season nears.

Appleton is hoping to purchase barriers for major events. (WLUK)

The city is looking to buy 130 Meridian barriers, each about 800 pounds, placed about four feet apart from each other.

“It really comes down to what’s the value of safety, and if these barricades save a life, what’s the value of that life that they’re saving?” said Lt. John Ostermeier of the Appleton Police Department.

The barricades have become more common after tragic incidents like the Waukesha Christmas Parade. Appleton even tested them out for Mile of Music three years ago but haven’t purchased any to use.

Notable 2026 Appleton events:

• June 6-October 17: Downtown Appleton Farm Market (every Saturday)
• June 13: Flag Day Parade
• July 30-August 2: Mile of Music
• Sept. 25: License to Cruise
• Sept. 26: Octoberfest
• Nov. 24: Christmas Parade

On Thursday, Ostermeier showed us the only barricades they currently have. They’re enough to alert drivers, but definitely not prevent a disaster, regardless of intention.

“The malicious threats are the ones that tend to come to mind, but more largely the concern is the non-malicious threats,” said Ostermeier, “the medical events, the person driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

Right now, police also protect crowds using vehicles to block roadways, but it’s less pedestrian friendly and can put expensive vehicles in harm’s way.

“These new barriers will allow you to walk right into the event, less impeded, less of a visual obstruction,” said Mayor Jake Woodford. “I actually think that these barriers will improve the experience folks have when they come out to our events.”

Leaders of some of Appleton’s major events, like Mile of Music and Octoberfest, weren’t available to share more on the impact of these barriers, but it’s expected they’d be used for all events that would draw large crowds

The purchase still needs approval from Appleton’s common council, who will likely vote on these soon. The Police Department hopes to have these ready in time for this year’s festivals and events happening in Appleton.