Full Notification

DATE:
January 21, 2017

RELEASE:
IMMEDIATE

CONTACT:
Capt. Chris Staley
805-781-7142
[email protected]


WOMEN’S MARCH UNFOLDS PEACEFULLY.
Crowd estimated at over 7,000 people.

SAN LUIS OBISPO –

An estimated of 7,000 plus participants marched peacefully today through downtown San Luis Obispo. March organizers, City staff and regional safety agencies worked collaboratively to ensure a safe and orderly event. The Women’s March began at Mitchell Park and proceeded through the core of Downtown San Luis Obispo.

Today’s peaceful event was a result of careful planning and coordination with Women’s March organizers, City staff, regional public safety partners from Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, CHP, Cal Poly, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Santa Maria, San Luis County Sheriff’s Department, California State Parks, Lompoc, and Center of Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

The event organizers requested additional City assistance when attendance estimates grew dramatically in recent weeks. In addition to securing significant support from other public safety agencies, the City coordinated extensive community outreach and ensured necessary services were in place such as portable toilets, a lost-child station, and medical support services such as EMT crews. Several streets were also closed and parking restricted along the march route and at Mitchell Park to ensure public safety.

San Luis Obispo Police Chief Cantrell addressed the crowd and shared a message of safety and civility: “Throughout the day, you will see many men and women in uniform and from agencies around the county. Know that we respect your right to assemble and that we are here to ensure the safety of everyone here today.”

City Manager Katie Lichtig expressed deep appreciation for the thoughtful and careful coordination of all involved: “Today’s march went smoothly, peacefully and reflects the true spirit of San Luis Obispo where our community can come together and respectfully share ideas and opinions”. Ms. Lichtig went on to say, “I want to specifically thank our city staff team and regional public safety partners for their assistance today.”