MILWAUKEE — The Bucks' Deer District is adding capacity for more fans to watch games at its outdoor viewing party. Crews were working Tuesday to add a new big screen monitor, expand the restroom capacity and fence in an additional area on the site of the old Bradley Center.
The Bucks said in a statement, “we are hoping to increase the footprint for our plaza watch parties to allow for additional fans to safely be a part of the incredible atmosphere in Deer District on game nights.”
Milwaukee Fire Department Chief of Operations Russel Rivard said he had been meeting with the Milwaukee Police Department and state and local law enforcement agencies. They are coordinating security and emergency plans for the additional fans in the area.
“The capacity for the Fiserv is 18,000 and we’re predicting 15,000 on the outside,” said Rivard.
Fencing has been added all around Deer District to help with crowd control and provide for certain entrance and exit points.
"We’ve been working with the police department on effective ways for people to enter the Deer District and keeping safe ways for them to exit the Deer District," said Rivard.
Business owners in the area are also preparing for an influx of people in the area.
“It’s a whole new world. Just think 3 months ago, we were almost closed. Now with the Bucks doing so well and COVID not fully in the rear view but passing, people are coming back out,” said Jack Roman, owner of Third Street Tavern.
He recommends fans make reservations if they can, and prepare to be patient as there will still likely be lines for many businesses.
After Wednesday, Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals will take place at Fiserv From on Friday.
