In a classic display of modern-day protests, the scene in New York City finds itself yet again entangled with the usual suspects: law enforcement, protesters, and of course, those ever-present ICE agents. The great state of New Jersey has decided to implement some creative measures for protecting those brave enough to take to the streets. With the New York Police Department and their partners from New Jersey State Police on the scene, it’s all hands on deck to usher in a peaceful protest environment. These officials have cordially invited protesters to occupy “peaceful assembly zones.” Such zones have been thoughtfully cordoned off with extensive bicycle rack borders, making sure no wheels will crash the party unless you’re pedaling. They’re also making use of checkpoints to prevent any spontaneous vehicle arrivals that might rudely interrupt the protests.

Now, it’s not just any ordinary protest putting our dutiful officers on high alert; there’s a notable uptick in nightly protests. With ICE agents making the rounds, the city has seen increased tensions and interactions that are anything but cordial. Officials seem content with giving ICE the boot from these areas to avoid any additional “enthusiasm” from the crowd. The presence of ICE seems to have the magical ability to turn a peaceful protest into a circus, and New Jersey officials have made it clear: they’d prefer to skip the performance this time around.

There’s a good lesson here about logistics and public protest planning. By setting up designated areas, New Jersey is keen on avoiding any vehicular mishaps like the one involving a protester and a pesky car. And for those wondering, the fantastical roadways, cordoned off so gracefully with bike racks, extend a welcoming invitation to all peaceful protesters to have their voices heard—or for politicians, maybe just a cacophony to endure. These zones aren’t some nefarious attempt to cage in energetic citizens (perish the thought!), but rather, to maintain the peace, at least until everyone decides to pack it up and go home.

While the protests are aimed at facilities like Delaney Hall, it’s worth noting the ongoing concern with detainees reportedly not receiving a fair shake in legal proceedings. And who could forget the spectacle of hearing that a single judge fielded through dozens of cases in one day like a speed dating round gone wrong? It’s this concern for due process mingled with public safety that provides the fuel (and not a small amount of indignation) for these protests.

Then again, there are the economics of law enforcement and detention centers—ah, capitalism in action. Who would have guessed that handling human rights might intersect with billion-dollar contracts and contributions to political campaigns? It’s a swirling mix of economics and ethics that leaves one questioning where to draw the line. If New Jersey’s actions indicate anything, it’s that they’re happy to have the federal delegates go in and take a closer look—especially if it means holding private entities accountable.

As the dust settles, it becomes clear that New Jersey officials are trying to pull off a high-wire act in ensuring public safety while maintaining the constitutional rights of their citizens. Perhaps what remains even clearer is the old adage about the politics of protest: it’s never just a walk in the park, especially when you have ICE agents playing boogeyman in the background.