LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Lexington city officials say they’re making preparations as the University of Kentucky Men’s Basketball Team continues its NCAA Tournament run with a Sweet 16 appearance on Friday. “This is a thrilling time for Lexington, and we’re excited to celebrate t he success of our hometown team,” Mayor Linda Gorton said in a news release. “We must work together to ensure that celebrations remain peaceful and safe.” According to the release, the Lexington Police Department is encouraging residents to celebrate responsibly. Police Commander Sam Murdock said peaceful celebrations are welcome, but warned that criminal acts such as vandalism, criminal mischief, and disorderly conduct “will not be tolerated.” Officers, along with public safety and government partners, will monitor celebrations through the department’s Real-Time Intelligence Center and are prepared to respond should any celebrations become disorderly, according to the city. City officials also noted that, in addition to the NCAA Tournament, the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16 Basketball Tournament will take place at Rupp Arena throughout the weekend. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling downtown and near campus areas due to potential road closures. The University of Kentucky Police Department plans to increase patrols on campus and adjacent areas before, during, and after Friday’s game. “The department will also have additional staff on hand and utilize its campus security system, which includes over 4,000 cameras, to heighten situational awareness,” UK Police Chief Joe Monroe said in the release. “Contingency plans are in place to be deployed in the event of any major emergencies. As always, we work closely with the City of Lexington and Lexington Police to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.” Meanwhile, the Lexington Fire Department will have an Incident Management Team stationed at Fire Station 6 on Scott Street, along with various fire and EMS units staged throughout the area. Lexington’s Division of Code Enforcement has issued an “Emergency Abatement” notice effective through 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 9, for property owners in the Waller and Elizabeth Street corridors. Residents must remove indoor furniture from outside their properties and ensure they remain free of trash and debris. Code Enforcement will perform a grid sweep in typical celebration areas, removing items found in violation. The city’s Division of Waste Management will assist by sweeping streets to clear debris and will secure trash containers beginning Wednesday and Thursday. Dumpsters in the Limestone corridor will also be emptied ahead of the anticipated celebrations. Categories: Featured, Local News, News Tags: Basketball, fire department, Lexington, NCAA Tournament, Police, preparations, Sweet 16, Traffic, uk ...read more read less