Santa Clara Establishes Free Speech Zones for Super Bowl LX

As Super Bowl LX approaches, Santa Clara is implementing designated “free speech zones” to accommodate fans wishing to express their views during the event. Scheduled for February 8, 2024, these zones will be located near Levi’s Stadium, allowing individuals to exercise their First Amendment rights amid the festivities.

The first free speech zone will be situated at the intersection of Great America Parkway and Patrick Henry Drive, while the second will be positioned at Tasman Drive and Lick Mill Boulevard. Both zones will be active from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., enabling attendees to gather and engage in expressive activities.

A spokesperson for the city explained that the initiative is part of extensive security measures necessitated by the scale of the Super Bowl. “The event requires comprehensive security coordination, crowd management, and the protection of emergency access routes,” the spokesperson stated. They emphasized that while the public retains its right to free speech in traditional forums, reasonable restrictions can be applied to ensure public safety and government interests.

The spokesperson noted that the establishment of these zones is a recognized and lawful method to balance the right to free expression with the need for safe operations during significant public events. “These zones help ensure safe pedestrian movement, reduce congestion near stadium entrances, and allow individuals to gather and engage in expressive activities without interfering with security operations,” they added.

Changes to the locations of the free speech zones may occur based on security assessments on the day of the event. City Attorney Glen Googins indicated that the city will utilize its social media platforms to keep the public informed of any adjustments.

In addition to the free speech zones, a “clean zone” has been established around Levi’s Stadium, effective from February 1 to February 10. This area will restrict certain activities, including outdoor food and beverage sales, merchandise sales, and mobile advertising. The clean zone is bounded by State Route 237 to the north, Calabazas Creek to the west, Highway 101 and Montague Expressway to the south, and the Guadalupe River to the east. During this period, sidewalk vending permits will be suspended, and temporary structures will require permits for assembly on non-residential properties.

On game day, several roads will be closed to facilitate security and crowd management. Specifically, Great America Parkway will be closed between Bunker Hill Lane and Patrick Henry Drive, along with Old Ironside and Old Glory Lane.

These measures reflect Santa Clara’s commitment to maintaining both public safety and the democratic right to free speech as tens of thousands of fans converge on the city for one of the largest sporting events in the world.