Universal Studios Hollywood security bubble will expand to include CityWalk

Universal Studios Hollywood is creating a wider security bubble that will include the CityWalk outdoor shopping mall and eventually clear the path for a new hotel planned near the theme park entrance.

The security enhancements will replace existing metal detection at the theme park’s entrance, according to a Universal Studios Hollywood spokesperson.

“As we continue to ensure the safety of our guests and team members, Universal Studios Hollywood is aligning security protocols with other destinations by adding metal detection hubs adjacent to its parking structures,” according to a Universal Studios Hollywood spokesperson.

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The project will create three security entrances dubbed the West, Central and East hubs near the Frankenstein, Jurassic, Curious George and E.T. parking structures, according to Park Fans.

New security screening checkpoints will be located behind NBC Sports Grill and Buca di Beppo in CityWalk and near the Frankenstein parking structure, according to Theme Park Insider.

The wider security perimeter will allow Universal to remove the existing screening checkpoint near the iconic globe at the theme park entrance where a new 500-room hotel is planned.

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The security changes at the Hollywood theme park resort come as Universal CityWalk is undergoing a sweeping transformation with nearly a dozen shops and restaurants changing operators.

The new security protocols align Universal Studios Hollywood with other theme park destinations that push screening checkpoints away from front entrances and closer to parking structures.

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Universal Orlando has security checkpoints with metal detectors and bag inspections before entering CityWalk.

The security perimeter for the Disneyland resort starts at the two main parking structures and includes the two theme parks and the Downtown Disney outdoor shopping mall.