City officials prepare for NYE celebrations in Times Square
From street closures to increased police presence, city officials say plans are well underway to keep millions of people safe.
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With just hours to go before New Yorkers gather to bring in the new year, the city is gearing up for one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations ever.
From street closures to increased police presence, city officials say plans are well underway to keep millions of people safe.
“It’s the crossroads of the entire globe,” said Mayor Eric Adams at a press conference. “People come here to bring in the new year, and it is our job to make sure they are able to do that at a level of safety.”
Part of that safety begins with street closures at 4 a.m. on Wednesday.
Thousands of uniformed and plainclothes officers will be deployed, supported by counterterrorism units, drones, K-9 teams and cameras monitoring activity across the city.
Even pickpocket teams and hotel response crews will be present.
“New Year’s Eve in Times Square is one of the largest and most complex public safety operations anywhere in the world, and one that the NYPD has secured successfully for decades,” Adams said.
New this year will be secondary screening teams monitoring those already in the celebration zones.
Officials are encouraging anyone looking to participate in the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration to take public transportation. Some drivers say they actually hope that will also apply in other areas.
Some prohibited items include alcohol, lawn chairs, backpacks, large bags or parcels, large coolers, weapons, drones and umbrellas.
