What’s causing extra long lines to enter the Benton Franklin fair? It’s not the Spam fries
Don’t be surprised if find an unusually long line of people waiting to get into the fairgrounds in Kennewick this week.
Fairgoers are being welcomed at the Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo with long waits as they pass through security stations.
For the first time, metal detectors are being used in addition to the usual bag searches by security staff.
No particular incident prompted the new security measures, said Lori Lancaster, the fair’s director.
“We’re just following best practices in the industry,” she said, noting that it is increasingly common to screen guests at events in the name of safety.
The security stations are operating at both public entrances. Lancaster said staff are working to keep the lines to a minimum, but are getting used to the new system.
“Plan ahead a little,” she advised.
The Kennewick Police Department warned fans there will be a strong law enforcement presence at the fair this year and noted that as a private event, the fair can set its own policies, including security checks.
Security teams are deploying both walk-thru and hand-held metal detectors this year.
And police officers are posted throughout the fairgrounds, as well.
Just last week in Moses Lake, two teen girls were accidentally shot at the Grant County Fair when a teen boy drew a gun on a rival gang member.
The Benton Franklin fair officials posted at the entrances to this week’s event and on the Guest Services section of its website a long list of items that are not allowed to be brought inside.
Fairgoers can expect their bags to be searched for weapons (including pocket knives and pepper spray) and illegal substances.
Bicycles, skateboards, non-service dogs, outside food and beverages also are not allowed.
The fair, billed as “The Best Week of Summer,” concludes on Saturday, Aug. 24.
The fairgrounds is at 1500 S. Oak St. in Kennewick.
Go to bentonfranklinfair.com.
This story was originally published August 21, 2024 at 1:54 PM.