NYPD Continues Increased Security Measures, Focus on Public Safety for J'Ouvert Celebration
August 30, 2018
Increased number of entryways to improve pedestrian flow
The NYPD today announced the parade security measures for the 2018 J'Ouvert Celebration, which will take place on Monday, September 3 at 6 A.M. in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.
The parade formation area will be located on Flatbush Avenue from Grand Army Plaza to Empire Boulevard. The parade route will proceed south on Flatbush Avenue, east on Empire Boulevard, and turn south on Nostrand Avenue to the finish area at Rutland Road.
"We learned with last year's success that each of us has the ability to make J'Ouvert a safe and highly enjoyable event," said Police Commissioner James P. O'Neill. "Through the evolution of this passionate celebration of Caribbean culture, the NYPD has built trust and strengthened relationships with many of the stakeholders, and we know we're always stronger and more effective together."
"J'Ouvert is one of the most vibrant cultural celebrations in our city, and we're working with the community to make the festivities are enjoyable for all," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "In the safest big city in America, no one should have to choose between ensuring their safety and celebrating their heritage."
Eric Cumberbatch, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office to Prevent Gun Violence said, "The community has a vital role to play to make this J'Ouvert the safest and most enjoyable event possible. We know that local leaders will be intensely focused on ensuring that the festivities remain a positive experience for everyone."
Security for the 2018 parade will follow closely to last year's successful plan, ensuring the safest possible environment for attendees and participants to enjoy the event. The formation area and parade route will close to the general public on the previous evening. Hundreds of additional uniformed officers will provide security at 13 secure entry points—up from 12 secure entry points last year—and along the two-mile parade route, where participants and spectators will be screened for weapons and alcoholic beverages. In addition, backpacks and other large bags will be prohibited. The Mayor's Office to Prevent Gun Violence will also deploy violence interrupters and community partners who understand current and past conflicts who will circulate throughout the celebration in order to preempt and resolve any conflicts that may arise.
Hundreds of light towers will illuminate each entry point along the parade route to increase safety and facilitate the ease of entry. The Department will also deploy additional high-resolution security cameras to monitor for any unsafe activity.
A unified team comprising J'Ouvert City International, the NYPD, clergy, community members, and elected officials are working together to ensure public safety at this year's celebration.
For more information, please visit www.nyc.gov/jouvert.