City of Boston Super Bowl Safety Message 2026

The following message was sent from the City of Boston Police Commissioner on February 3, 2026. See the full PDF HERE. 

To: Boston Area College and University Students

Dear Students,

I am writing in reference to Super Bowl Weekend. The Boston Police Department is preparing for the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl this Sunday. As fans, we are asking everyone to celebrate responsibly. Below please find key information that will help us provide the best public safety possible.

There will be temporary parking, vehicle and pedestrian access restrictions around several locations in the city on Sunday, February 8th.

• The traffic restrictions apply to many streets in and around Brighton, Kenmore Square, Boston University, Northeastern University, Faneuil Hall and the North Station areas. Please pay close attention to signage in these and other areas to avoid your vehicle being towed, or you being unable to access a destination in the City during the restricted timeframe.

• Pedestrian traffic will be limited in similar areas on Sunday, February 8th beginning at approximately 8:00 pm. For example, Kenmore Square will be restricted after the third quarter of play in the game. Boylston and Hemenway Streets will be impacted as well.

Please, if you are out and about, we ask that you also pay particular attention to your surroundings, especially vehicular traffic, Do not walk with headphones on and do not wear all dark clothing so motorists are able to see you — particularly with the snow. Information regarding Ride Share services is attached to this letter. Additional information about the Super Bowl can be obtained from our website at www.bpdnews.com.

The Boston Police Department will have extra patrols monitoring license premise locations, as well as neighborhoods where we typically see an increase in activity or house parties. Underage drinking is illegal, as is serving or procuring alcohol for minors, No matter what you are drinking, please also be sure to keep your drink in your control to avoid the dangers of drink spiking. If you need assistance, or see concerning behavior, please call 911 – we are here to help.

In addition, extreme and dangerous low temperatures are expected on Sunday. Dangers come with being outside in the cold, so we ask that you stay informed of the weather, dress accordingly and consider staying indoors.

Please remember that there will be zero tolerance for disruptive and illegal behavior. Should you behave in a way that warrants the intervention of Boston or campus police, your name will be shared with your respective Dean of Students for appropriate discipline.

Boston is fortunate to have exceptional athletic teams with loyal and enthusiastic fans. It is our hope that you enjoy the game and celebrate in a safe and responsible manner. Go Pats!

Sincerely,
Michael A. Cox
Police Commissioner

Rideshare Safety

How to Stay Safe When Riding with Uber

  • First, know what you’re getting. There are several levels of Uber drivers— the cheapest, UberX, is made of everyday citizens with a car and a driver’s license, while UberBlack, the company’s original service, consists of certified chauffeurs who have been licensed by the city, and is slightly more expensive.
  • UberX drivers use their own vehicles to provide rides. They are required to be at least 21 or 23 years old, depending on the city, have their own insurance, and a mid-size or full-size 4-door vehicle in excellent condition (according to Uber’s website).
  • When you book a ride, the app will send a confirmation text to riders with a photo of their driver, the license plate number of their Uber, and a description of the vehicle, so you know who to look for. When you see the vehicle, check the plate and the car’s make and model. You should also ask your driver their name; to be sure it matches the name you received in your confirmation text.
  • When you book a ride using the Uber app, and you receive a text confirmation that the driver is on his way, you are then able input your destination into the app and share that with anyone via text message. Friends are then able to watch your ride on a map in real-time, using the Uber app.
  • Riders should never get into an Uber car they didn’t order. Nor should they get into the Uber if any of the information they received in the confirmation text does not match up.

Remember, if you have an emergency, or there is a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1 immediately.