Enhanced Security for this Year's New Year's Eve Celebration in Times Square
December 28, 2017
The New York City Police Department will have enhanced security measures in place for this year's New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square.
"We want to let people know what they can expect as they brave the cold – and it's certainly going to be cold – and head out to Times Square or any number of areas where festivities are taking place around the five boroughs," said NYPD Commissioner James P. O'Neill.
As in previous New Year's Eve celebrations, and throughout the year, the NYPD continually adjusts its security measures based on current events around the globe. This year, the NYPD will be further securing the outer perimeter of Times Square to ensure that people waiting to enter screening areas are not exposed to open streets with moving vehicles. Additionally, the NYPD and its law enforcement partners will be increasing the number of observation posts throughout Times Square in order to proactively monitor elevated vantage points.
"There are no direct, credible threats to New York City or to Times Square, specifically, or to any of our New Year's Eve events, generally," said Commissioner O'Neill. "People will be safe and they should feel safe, too, because the NYPD and our partners are prepared. This is going to be one of the most well-policed, best-protected events, at one of the safest venues in the entire world. And we'll ensure that New York City has yet another safe and enjoyable New Year's Eve celebration — as we do every year."
The following items will be strictly prohibited:
- Backpacks
- Large bags
- Umbrellas
- Lawn chairs
- Alcoholic beverages
Property may not be abandoned at checkpoints. Attendees who leave before the ball drops will not be able to regain entry to their original viewing areas.
Beginning at 11 AM on Sunday, December 31st, 2017, the area from West 37th Street through West 59th Street, and from 6th Avenue to 8th Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic. Please note that certain truck routes have changed.
Pedestrian access points are as follows:
- 37th & 7th Ave
- 37th & Broadway
- 38th & 8th Ave
- 38th & 6th Ave
- 49th from 8th & 6th Ave
- 52nd from 8th & 6th Ave
- 54th from 6th Ave
- 55th from 8th Ave
- 57th from 7th Ave
- 57th from Broadway
- 58th from 8th & 6th Ave
- 59th from 8th & 6th Ave
Heavy traffic conditions are expected, and there will be rolling street closures in Manhattan, so use of mass transit is strongly encouraged. Anyone who sees suspicious activity should alert a police officer or call 911. The NYPD's terrorism hotline is 888-NYC-SAFE.