Fairview Park police chief addresses safety at Summerfest

FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio (WJW) – Fairview Park’s police chief addressed safety concerns ahead of this weekend’s annual Fairview Park Summerfest.

Thousands of people from across Northeast Ohio are expected to attend the four-day festival at Bohlken Park.

According to Chief Paul Shepard, officers are working 12-hour shifts all weekend, while others are on overtime.

Nearby police departments are also on standby Friday night and Saturday night when the biggest crowds are expected.

Chief Shepard says the goal is to make this event as safe as possible for people looking to have a good time.

“In light of everything that is going on with other festivals in the area, we want to assure people we have a plan to make sure the place is safe. But we also want to educate the public that if you see something, say something. Be responsible, respect each other,” he said.

Summerfest has been a tradition in Fairview Park for over 30 years. According to Chief Shepard, there haven’t been any major incidents in the past.

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