ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Blue and Gold pride is in full swing as Albany State University (ASU) gears up for Homecoming weekend.

From the parade to the big game, thousands are expected to fill the city — bringing not just excitement, but also a few important changes this year to keep everyone safe.

ASU officials say safety is their top priority following last year’s deadly shooting on campus.

|READ MORE: Albany teen indicted for deadly Albany State homecoming shooting|

This year, new security measures are being enforced, including a wristband system that controls who can access campus events and The Yard — the center of Homecoming festivities.

“We’re focused on making sure everyone can enjoy Homecoming safely,” said ASU Chief of Police Anita Allen. “The wristband system will help us better manage access and ensure only authorized guests are on campus.”

Wristbands Now Required for Campus Access

All Homecoming attendees will be required to wear wristbands while on campus. The $10 Yard Access Wristband grants entry to The Yard for live music, vendors, and other festivities. However, it does not include parking or admission to the football game.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Cost: $10 for General Admission
• Access: The Yard, live entertainment, vendors, and Greek plots
• Requirement: Must be worn at all times while on campus
• Enforcement: Individuals without wristbands will be removed from campus
• Campus Hours: Closes at midnight

Different wristbands will identify various groups:

• Blue Wristbands: General Admission — required for entry to The Yard and tailgating areas.
• Yellow Wristbands: ASU Students — available with a valid student ID.
• Staff Wristbands: For event workers and campus personnel.

Where to Get Your Wristband

Wristbands can be purchased at the Old Police Department Building across from Billy C. Black.

• Friday: Sales end at 5 p.m., or you can buy one at the Fish Fry from 6–9 p.m. at the West Campus E Building Lobby.
• Saturday: Out-of-town guests will have an additional pickup window before festivities begin.

For those traveling in from out of town, wristbands can be picked up or purchased at one of the four designated tents located at campus access walk-throughs:

• Pedestrian Walkway – Jones Brothers HPER Complex
• Pedestrian Walkway – Billy C. Black Building
• RamFest, Lower East Campus
• Between Sanford Gymnasium and Peace Hall

Barricades are already up across campus, and police are encouraging everyone to plan ahead, expect delays, and follow posted detour signs around construction and road closures.

With heightened security and community excitement, ASU’s Homecoming promises to be both festive and safe — a celebration of tradition, pride, and resilience in the heart of Ram Nation.

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