HARRISBURG: Governor Edward G. Rendell, Philadelphia Mayor John F. Street and the Philadelphia Eagles jointly announced a new policy Thursday regarding the ability of Eagles fans to enter Lincoln Financial Field with food products purchased outside of the stadium.

In response to concerns expressed by Eagles' fans, the Eagles, State and City have worked together to develop a revised policy whereby select entry points would be available at games for fans wishing to bring in food.

As at the Vet, all food must be brought in clear plastic, sandwich-sized bags. The entry points would be staffed by additional security personnel to make certain that prohibited objects would not be carried in along with permitted food products.

Eagles President Joe Banner

"Our primary objective has always been to keep the enjoyment and the safety of our fans at the forefront of our business, and this new policy will allow us to do just that," said Eagles President Joe Banner. "While we all agree that our original policy was appropriate for the purpose of security, this new policy strikes a better balance between safety and fan concerns."

Earlier this month, the Philadelphia Eagles contacted the Commonwealth's Office of Homeland Security (OHS) for advice regarding the Eagles proposed ban on all objects, including food, being allowed into Lincoln Financial Field.

At that time, OHS personnel commented that although they had not been afforded the opportunity to review the Eagles' written policy, as a general matter, a universal ban on all objects being carried into the stadium would increase overall stadium security and the Eagles' ability to provide a safe environment for the fans. The Eagles received similar advice from other outside security experts.

"We all believe that the Eagles' revised policy will allow Eagles fans like myself to enjoy the games at our beautiful new stadium with both the ability to bring in their own food and the peace of mind that all appropriate safety measures are being exercised on their behalf," Governor Rendell said.

The State will work with the Eagles to ensure that appropriate resources are in place so that fans carrying food into the stadium will not be unreasonably delayed.

Philadelphia Mayor John F. Street was pleased with the new policy, "This is great news for Philadelphia Eagles' fans," said the Mayor. "With this new policy in place, I am confident the legitimate security concerns for the Eagles will now be balanced as fans continue to carry on with a great Philadelphia tradition."

Read Banner's complete transcription.