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Security changes at Rath Building

Posted at 6:04 PM, Mar 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-03-30 10:13:41-04

New security measures are going into place at the Edward A. Rath County Office Building.

One of the new measures includes shutting down the tunnel that runs under the Rath Building to the public parking ramp under the Main Place Mall.

Erie County Press Secretary Peter Anderson says the county is being proactive after a report from the Department of Homeland Security that called the ramp a security risk.

“This is the seat of Erie County Government. If some sort of security mishap was to happen in that tunnel under beneath this building, it could effectively decapitate county government,” Anderson explained.

Erie County has added more patrol officers at all doors of the building. Officers are now checking for identification at the entrance of the Rath on the pedestrian walkway bridge that crosses Pearl Street.

“Security is always a top issue for the administration, keeping employees and the public safe. We are going to continue doing what we need to do and what’s recommended to do to make the Rath Building safer for everyone who comes here,” Anderson said.

The Pearl Street doors of the building are now only used for exiting. To go inside the Rath Building, you must use the Franklin Street entrance.

Anderson said there is a resolution in front of Erie County Legislators for more security officers and to purchase devices to check for bombs.