The City of Albuquerque is gearing up for the 51st Annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta with a range of enhancements and activities. According to a press release, the city has collaborated with various entities to improve the public safety plan for the event.

The City of Albuquerque has been working on improving emergency management operations and procedures in case of weather-related or high-stress events at Balloon Fiesta Park during the festival. This effort involved collaboration with the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, regional law enforcement agencies, the City's Emergency Management Office, Bernalillo County, and federal partners.

To ensure the safety of participants and visitors, the Special Investigations Division of the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) will conduct highly visible and covert operations across the city. They will oversee security at hotels and the vicinity of Balloon Fiesta Park. In addition, APD will partner with the Superintendent of Insurance to provide GPS trackers to balloonists. These trackers will be affixed to the balloons to facilitate location tracking in case of any balloon theft incidents.

Chief Harold Medina of the APD expressed his gratitude to the first responders who will be working to keep residents and guests safe during the festivities. He mentioned that officers will be present on the field and traffic teams will help with the flow of people in and out of the park. Furthermore, teams will be safeguarding the businesses where visitors will be spending their time.

Balloon Fiesta Park itself has received upgrades, including a new northeast parking lot with 750 additional spaces and improved pedestrian access. Parks and Recreation Director Dave Simon stated, "With new park improvements and special events, the 51st Balloon Fiesta is sure to eclipse all others."

The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum will have extended hours during the Balloon Fiesta, opening from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, the museum will host the FIA Ballooning Commission International Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on the eve of the event.

With these enhancements and activities, the City of Albuquerque aims to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and visitors during the 51st Annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.