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http://www.therecord.com/news-story/4373084-officials-joined-forces-to-contain-student-st-paddy-s-day-party/

By Liz Monteiro

WATERLOO — No one wants to stop the fun that students are planning to have on Ezra Avenue in Waterloo on St. Patrick's Day.

The annual St. Paddy's Day — held on March 17 — has been getting bigger over the years, with last year's crowd reaching nearly 7,000 people.

And when numbers get this large, it's worrisome for police, fire, university and city officials.

Since last summer, representatives from those groups as well as Emergency Medical Services have been meeting regularly to ensure the event is fun but, most importantly, safe for participants and the neighbourhood.

"This is an event we aren't going to stop. We want to make it as safe as possible," said Deputy Chief Kevin Chalk of Waterloo Regional Police Service.

"We are not trying to shut things down," he said.

"We are there to be reasonable," said Staff Sgt. Sheana Morris. "Our enforcement will be firm, but fair.

"We are not trying to rain on anyone's party," she said.

This year, plans also include another venue to give students a choice where to party. A licensed tent will be erected on Seagram Drive and it can accommodate up to 3,000 revelers.

Megan Harris of the City of Waterloo said all partners want the students to enjoy themselves, but those causing disruptions will be dealt with.

"Those flagrantly breaking the law will face charges," she said. "Safety is our No. 1 priority."

The tent will be erected in parking lot next to the Granite Club and it will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event is being organized by a Toronto company and admission tickets range from $8 to $12, Harris said.

Tickets go on sale Feb. 26. A free pancake breakfast will be held in the tent on March 17.

Harris said the tent is a more controlled environment and hopefully it will lower the numbers congregating on Ezra Avenue.

"We don't want to stop the fun. We need tolerance and discretion," she said.

On March 11, police, along with city bylaw and building permit staff, and fire officials will be part of a door-knocking campaign in the Ezra Avenue and Seagram Drive area to remind students and the community what is acceptable behaviour on St. Patrick's Day.

On March 17, up to 100 officers will be in the area of Ezra Avenue and Seagram Drive. Officers will include the "public order" unit commonly known as the anti-riot squad.

These officers have advanced training and know how to handle large crowds. Police will also have their command post vehicle out at the