RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — “It’s kind of the world we live in. I think in 2015 there’s crazy people out there,” said Fruit Fixed business owner Justin Carroll.
Carroll is at just one of the many businesses Richmond police recently visited to ask people in the area to be on the lookout for anything that seems off during this year’s world cycling championships.
“There’s a lot of people that will be here and it’s going to be a pretty big event,” said Carroll.
450,000 spectators are expected to be here for the international event. Authorities have been working on security plans for years but say help from the public will be essential to keeping the race safe for everyone.
“If you’re in a public place, I think it’s very important that you be aware of your surroundings,” said Guitarworks owner Brian Medas.
Medas says while he doesn’t think anything will happen, he says no one can afford not to be on the lookout.
“Sadly I think that’s the new normal. I think we all have to be very careful no matter where we are,” said Medas.
“Is it likely to happen in Virginia, in Richmond? Probably not but if you saw something out of the ordinary, I think it would probably be better to be safe than sorry,” said Carroll.
