LOUISVILLE — More than 50 police officers will be on duty for two rap concerts during Kentucky Derby weekend, and another 115 officers will be nearby if needed, police said.

        Lt. Col. Ed Blaser, chief of operations for the Louisville Police Department, said it is the most officers ever assigned for a concert.

        “We will be prepared,” Col. Blaser said.

        City aldermen have paid $325,000 to Blue Chip Entertainment to hold two concerts — featuring rappers Trick Daddy and DMX, among with other acts — during the weekend.

        City leaders hope to draw 11,000 to each of the two events — to be held Friday and Saturday nights at Freedom Hall — to recoup their money.

        The concerts are part of the activities held at the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center in an effort to curb the annual Derby cruising that results in gridlocked traffic along Broadway.

        Police Chief Greg Smith said the officers were made available as a precaution should violence break out. But Chief Smith said he doesn't anticipate any trouble.

        “Most of these groups don't carry that type of history,” Chief Smith said.

        Phat Fest 2001 will feature Trick Daddy, Trina, The S&S Express and L Burna on Friday. Saturday's concert will feature DMX, Eight Ball and MJG.

        Police also plan to have a command post with a booking area there if any arrests are made, Col. Blaser said. As many as 53 officers and no fewer than 30 are expected to be at the fairgrounds during the concert.

        Police said more than 700 Louisville officers will be working Derby weekend, with 220 officers on a team to respond to problems in any part of the city.

        Chief Smith held a news conference Tuesday to outline plans for the crush of traffic that descends on Louisville during the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks.

        Police plan to close Central Avenue to vehicle traffic at all intersections from Second Street to Taylor Boulevard during the Derby and Oaks.

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