Extra security on hand as tailgate parties planned at ACC

Expect extra police presence around the Air Canada Centre as two tailgate parties are set to take over Maple Leaf Square Wednesday night.

One party will be for the Maple Leafs, who play Game 7 against the Bruins in Boston.

The Leafs clawed their way back after falling behind 3-1 in the series.

The other party is for Game 5 of the Raptors series against the Washington Wizards, which is being played at the ACC.

That series is tied 2-2.

Each game will be shown on large screens inside the square, while a third screen will show the Toronto FC CONCACAF finals match.

“This is a big night for the Maple Leafs, Raptors and TFC; for our fans and for our city,” said Nick Eaves with Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment.

“As always, we are thankful to our partners at the City of Toronto and Toronto Police Service for their help delivering a safe and positive event to celebrate teams and our city.”

Meanwhile, Metrolinx is working with police and other transit agencies to ensure safety and order around Union Station, which is the city’s largest transit hub.

Concrete barriers have been put in place between the sidewalk and the road in front of the station.

Heads up if you’re travelling around @unionstationTO. There are now barriers for protection which need a little navigation. Any questions about safety or concerns pls seek out @GOTransitSSD who are around along with @TPSOperations pic.twitter.com/R7rXCVddIn

— Anne Marie Aikins (@femwriter) April 24, 2018

This comes just two days after ten pedestrians were killed in a van attack in North York.

“We have many more transit safety officers in and around Union Station,” said Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins.

“We have every possible officer on deck.”

The Blue Jays are also playing at the Rogers Centre Wednesday at 7 p.m.