Montreal might be in the middle of a comedy festival but the extra security on the site is no laughing matter.

Large cement blocks have been installed near Place Des Arts as a measure to stop a vehicle from driving through the crowds in the area. The blocks also function as benches.

Police said it’s part of an effort to prevent an attack like the one in Nice, France two weeks ago and that the blocks have been in the works since 2014.

A spokesperson for the SPVM stressed that there is no specific threat in Montreal, but like the added barriers to the Jacques Cartier Bridge during fireworks exhibitions, it’s part of preventative measures. They added that a second access point is open for ambulances and firetrucks in case of emergency.