Hundreds of Thousands Expected to Safely Gather in Times Square
The New York City Police Department announced security measures for the annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square. Police Commissioner Dermot Shea was joined by members of the NYPD Executive Staff in the Joint Operations Center (JOC) at One Police Plaza. The New York City Police Department along with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners will continue to roll out a comprehensive overlay of police officers and other security measures to ensure the safety of the celebrators. Thousands of officers, both uniformed and plainclothes, heavy weapons teams from ESU, CRC, and SRG, along with the Technical Assistance & Response Unit, Canine Teams, the Mounted Unit, the Aviation Unit, and the Harbor Unit will be on hand to ensure the safety of the celebrators.
"The experience of ringing in the New Year in New York City is remarkable, and I commend the thousands of members of the NYPD for their own remarkable undertaking in ensuring the safety of those celebrating,” said Police Commissioner Dermot Shea. “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, the NYPD routinely does a great job planning and securing large-scale events around New York City. This collaboration is critical in carrying out our mission of delivering a safe and enjoyable event."
As in years past, those attending the celebration in Times Square will be screened. Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Property may not be abandoned at checkpoints. At approximately 11 a.m., attendees will be directed by police officers to gather in separate viewing pens. As the evening progresses, revelers will continue to populate Times Square along Broadway and Seventh Avenue moving uptown from 43rd Street to Central Park. Please note, attendees who leave before the ball drops will not be able to regain entry to their original viewing area.
Beginning at 4 a.m. on Tuesday, December 31st, 2019, Times Square will be closed to vehicular traffic. People should avoid all cross-town streets from 33rd to 59th Streets, as well as Sixth and Eighth Avenues. A traffic advisory with a comprehensive list of street closures is available on the NYPD website.
Mass transit is strongly encouraged due to expected heavy traffic delays and parking restrictions. Anyone who sees suspicious activity should alert a police officer or call 911. The NYPD’s terrorism hotline is 888-NYC-SAFE.
