An access control system and method for monitoring a public access point are disclosed. The system includes a positioning unit that tracks locations of users carrying user devices relative to the public access point, where the user devices transmit user information identifying the users via wireless signals. The system determines whether the users are authorized to pass through the access point based on the wireless signals from the user devices. Public access points include security checkpoints at government buildings, airports, amusement parks, and universities, in examples. In embodiments, biometric identifiers are obtained from the users when the users are preferably located within a threshold area of the public access points, and the system confirms the identity of the authorized users via the biometric identifiers to enable the users to pass through the public access points. Additionally, the system can assist in evacuation of users based on their tracked locations.