Security screening technology from a Waltham-headquartered firm made its debut at TD Garden in Boston last weekend, introducing a new bag policy that caught many fans off guard. The policy, which took effect on Saturday, mandates that attendees adhere to strict guidelines regarding bag size, limiting them to dimensions akin to a postcard: 6 inches in length, 4 inches in height, and 1.5 inches in thickness. Exceptions to this rule are made for bags purchased from the Boston Proshop, diaper bags, and medical essentials, as outlined in the fine print. Attendees found with non-compliant bags will be directed to utilize the services of The Mobile Locker Company on Legends Way for bag storage, subject to a $15 fee.
Despite the policy being enforced during the Boston Bruins’ game against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday, the venue only officially communicated it via social media on Sunday. This delayed announcement sparked backlash on social platforms, with many voicing discontent over the lack of advance notice for what was perceived as a highly unpopular and inconvenient regulation for patrons.
Numerous reactions raised practical concerns about the diminutive bag size. Queries arose regarding the feasibility of fitting essential items like EpiPens into such compact bags, while others pointed out the challenge of accommodating personal belongings such as Invisalign cases, travel toothbrushes, toothpaste, keys, IDs, credit cards, and phones within the specified dimensions.
TD Garden officials attributed the shift in bag policy to the implementation of security screening technology from Evolv Technology, based in Waltham. Evolv’s cutting-edge equipment, already in use at various local venues, employs sensors and artificial intelligence to identify concealed weapons as spectators pass through checkpoints, eliminating the need to empty pockets or bags.
