Expert analyzes Charlotte sidewalks and pedestrian plazas

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A renowned international security expert has analyzed uptown Charlotte in the wake of the recent deadly vehicle attacks in Barcelona.

Ross Bulla, founder of The Treadstone Group, designs security plans for businesses and government agencies around the world.

He agreed to analyze uptown Charlotte on Friday afternoon and said vehicle attacks against pedestrians are a viable threat in cities like Charlotte.

Bulla told Channel 9 that bollards, barricades and architectural barriers are used to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian areas.

He noticed several areas near the Trade and Tryon-street intersection that require attention, in his opinion.

"You invest in bollards every 15 feet but you leave a gap like that," Bulla said pointing to an opening, "It doesn't matter what you have the rest of the street."

Bulla believes the southern perimeter of Romare Bearden Park is far too exposed to vehicles and should incorporate ideas from the northern half of the park.

"You're protected by the half walls. They're hardened. They're reinforced. It would be nearly impossible for a vehicle to get through there," Bulla said while pointing to architectural barriers.

Bulla believes the perimeter of BB&T Ballpark needs improvement but said the Bank of America Stadium has excellent security features to protect people on foot.

Bulla said he was very disappointed with the perimeter of the Spectrum Center but believes uptown Charlotte as a whole does a good job with pedestrian safety.

"There are areas for improvement but overall I'd give them a B or a B-plus, Bulla said.

Cox Media Group