Cleveland Avenue Bridge Protest: Security Overview & Operational Impact

Who, What, Where, When, and Why

On Tuesday, June 24th, a protest is scheduled to take place on the Cleveland Avenue Bridge in St. Paul, MN, directly over the vital I-94 corridor. The demonstration is organized by Jamie Palmquist, with the event listed as public and open to all. While specific causes and affiliations were not publicly disclosed, the location and format strongly suggest the event is intended to gain maximum public and commuter visibility.

This protest is planned to last 1.5 hours during peak evening traffic, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, a time when thousands of commuters use the I-94 and surrounding roads to travel through the Twin Cities.

Security & Operational Implications

Events like this—particularly those staged on or over major transit corridors—carry significant operational and safety risks:

• Traffic Disruption: Protesters occupying a bridge that spans a major interstate can result in diverted traffic, slowdowns, or complete shutdowns. Surrounding roads such as Marshall Ave, St. Anthony Blvd, and University Ave may become congested as commuters seek alternate routes.

• Pedestrian-Vehicle Interaction Risk: Participants entering the roadway or bridge surface increase the chance of confrontation or accident, whether intentional or due to low visibility and congestion.

• Law Enforcement & EMS Delays: Any blockage or activity above a highway restricts emergency vehicle movement, extending response times during critical windows.

• Business & Institutional Interruption: Institutions near the site—like the University of St. Thomas and surrounding retail or residential zones—may experience delays, evacuations, or increased perimeter control.

Blackstone Intelligence Group Security Recommendations

As a premier intelligence-driven security firm, Blackstone Intelligence Group views public demonstrations through a lens of preparedness and discretion. Here’s how we recommend individuals, organizations, and property managers near the affected area respond:

1. Advance Awareness

Ensure all stakeholders (employees, residents, students) are aware of the event and its timing. Use internal messaging systems to disseminate maps and alternate routes for ingress and egress.

2. Secure Key Access Points

If you're within a 2–3 block radius of the bridge, secure entry points and limit non-essential visitors. Reassess camera coverage, access control points, and physical barriers.

3. Monitor in Real Time

Use a combination of live-feed cameras, radio communications, and partner apps to monitor the situation. Flag escalations early—such as counter-protests, aggressive behavior, or law enforcement mobilization.

4. Enhance Staff Posture

Deploy trained security professionals at exterior points—not to intervene, but to observe, deter opportunistic actors, and facilitate coordinated response with law enforcement if needed.

5. Stay Ready for Escalation

While most protests remain peaceful, there is always a risk of emotional escalation. Blackstone advises pre-drafting emergency communication scripts, evaluating evacuation routes, and reviewing shelter-in-place protocols.

Final Thoughts

Protests like the Cleveland Avenue Bridge demonstration underscore the importance of proactive security planning in today’s unpredictable operational landscape. Even a brief protest can ripple outward—impacting safety, business continuity, and public perception.

At Blackstone Intelligence Group, we don’t just react—we prepare you for what’s ahead. Our field-tested professionals and intelligence-grade protocols are built to keep people, property, and reputations safe—before, during, and after the threat unfolds.