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A measure to give Charlotte $50 million for security at the Democratic National Convention finally cleared Congress Thursday night.
The Senate approved the bill, which also allocates $50 million for Tampa for the Republican convention. The House passed it earlier in the day.
The measures are part of a $182 billion spending bill to keep the government running through Dec. 16. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the bill.
"These much-needed funds will ensure that not only is this the most open and accessible convention in history, but a safe one, too," said Democratic convention CEO Steve Kerrigan. "The security of the city's residents and convention attendees is a top priority, and these funds give Charlotte the resources to get the job done."
In a statement, Mayor Anthony Foxx applauded the efforts of city officials and the states congressional delegation in getting the money approved.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department is expected to roughly double in size by adding an estimated 2,400 to 3,400 officers from Hickory, Greensboro, Concord and Monroe, among others.
The money is expected to offset the costs of additional officers and equipment. Police spokesman Rob Tufano has declined to discuss details of how the money would be used.
According to the St. Petersburg Times, Tampa officials have said they expect to bring in 3,000 or more law enforcement officers in addition to the city's nearly 1,000 Tampa police officers and 1,100 sheriff's deputies.
