Leaders with Albuquerque Public Schools say they studied what UNM and the Isotopes do when it comes to stadium safety before implementing some changes to security ahead of the 2026 football season.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Leaders with Albuquerque Public Schools say they studied what UNM and the Isotopes do when it comes to stadium safety before implementing some changes to security ahead of the 2026 football season.
“We’re implementing a weapons detection system this year, which is new. And we’re building out what we implemented last year, which was our clear bag policy,” said Adrian Ortega, the executive director of Athletics and Activities for APS.
Those weapons detectors are gray towers that fans will encounter at the entrances of district stadiums including Wilson, Milne, Community, and even the APS Soccer Complex.
An APS spokesperson confirmed to KOB 4 the cost of those detectors was a little over $457,000.
In addition to that change, fans can expect APS to be a little stricter about the size of the clear bags fans are allowed to bring inside stadiums.
That clear bag policy was implemented ahead of last year’s season, but Ortega says many people tried bringing in larger bags than what’s allowed. Bags are supposed to be no larger than 12 by 12 by 6 inches.
“So, spectators were being a little bit crafty last year, and they were bringing a big clear bag…so we tightened it up a little bit,” he said.
KOB 4 spoke to fans ahead of the La Cueva vs. Eldorado matchup Friday night at Wilson Stadium about these recent changes.
“Yeah, I don’t think that’s too big of an ask, you know, this town is crazy. So, having a clear bag is probably the wisest thing,” said Sam Harris.
As for the weapons detectors, La Cueva student, Everley Sorensen, said she’s all for that as well.
“Yeah, I think that’s a good idea, especially because you never know with the kids here,” she said.
One parent said what APS is doing seems to be working compared to other environments she’s encountered.
“I feel safer at APS games than I did at YAFL games, oddly enough,” said Amber Carpenter.
Fans will still be allowed to bring chairbacks, umbrellas, and other necessary items for comfort, according to APS.
The goal of the changes, according to Ortega, is to make fans feel even safer and create guidelines that are more in-line with what fans can expect to find at bigger stadiums this day and age.
“So, what we’re offering is nothing different to what the Isotopes or UNM offers to spectators when they come through the building,” he said.
