FRISCO, Texas — When fans attend FC Dallas matches this season, they'll notice a difference in the screening process to get into Toyota Stadium.
FC Dallas announced it has swapped out metal detectors for Evolv Technology, a security technology company pioneering AI-based screening. Starting with the season opener against San Jose on Feb. 24, Toyota Stadium will utilize Evolv Express systems to screen fans and staff at all of its entrances.
Using sensor technology combined with artificial intelligence, Express can tell the difference between weapons and non-threatening metal objects people commonly carry, FC Dallas officials said in a release. Club officials said they saw the success of Evolv at other facilities across MLS and switched to Express from metal detectors, which contributed to long lines and bottlenecks at entry.
“Increasingly, MLS decision makers – myself and my colleagues included - are strategizing about how to optimize the fan experience,” said Nick Shafer, vice president of stadium operations for FC Dallas and Toyota Stadium. “We had the opportunity to see the difference Evolv makes with the events in December, and we’re very excited to join other MLS and Texas teams that are using Express to enhance experience while upleveling safety.”
FC Dallas joins St. Louis CITY SC, New England Revolution, Columbus Crew, among others, as well as Houston's professional sports franchises (Texans, Rockets and Astros) who use Evolv.
“It is incredibly fulfilling to have another MLS team bring in Evolv,” said Jay Muelhoefer, chief commercial officer for Evolv Technology. “The fact that teams recognize how Evolv is transforming the fan experience at other stadiums in the league is a testament to how truly impactful the technology is. We’re excited to partner with FC Dallas and help create a safer, more fan-friendly environment for another Texas team.”
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