University of Iowa officials are taking steps to curb excessive drinking around Kinnick Stadium during the upcoming football season. Athletic director Gary Barta says season ticket holders are getting letters outlining the new tailgating rules permitting alcoholic beverage consumption in campus parking lots for only one hour after the game. Fans must be out of the parking lots within two hours.
“We’re trying to focus on the knuckleheads,” Barta said. “I don’t think anybody can argue that we have a great environment and I don’t think anybody can argue that it’s a good thing to try to curtail those who are being unsafe.”
U-of-I Public Safety Director Charles Green says enforcing Iowa City’s open container ordinance is a top priority. He says people with alcoholic beverages on streets and sidewalks will be cited and vehicles leaving the stadium will be randomly pulled over and checked.
“Our goal is not to arrest anyone,” Green said. “We’re hoping to inform people so they can take the self-corrective actions that are necessary so they can enjoy the game and enjoy their trip home.” Officials also added an additional rule for the October 2nd game with Penn State. They’re banning all alcohol consumption after the game which is scheduled to kickoff at 7 p.m.