NYPD Announces Fourth of July Security Plan

July 2, 2018

The NYPD has instituted a comprehensive security plan in preparation for Fourth of July celebrations. Although there is no specific credible terror threat, all precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of the millions of anticipated spectators.

More than 6,000 uniformed and plainclothes officers will be deployed to viewing areas along the East River waterfront in Brooklyn and Manhattan for the Macy's Fireworks show. Over 100 blocker cars and sand trucks will also be positioned in and around the viewing areas. Counterterrorism and K9 officers will be deployed throughout the city.

Public viewing will begin at 6pm. Access points to the viewing areas in Manhattan will be located along the FDR Drive at Houston Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, and 42nd Street. In Brooklyn, viewing areas will be located at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Grand Ferry Park, Domino Park, Bushwick Inlet Park, East River State Park, and Transmitter Park. In Queens, viewing areas will be located at Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter's Point South Park.

Although backpacks will be permitted in the viewing areas, certain items will be prohibited, including large coolers, lounge chairs, blankets, and umbrellas.

Streets will be closed beginning at 3pm on July 4. For a comprehensive list of street closures, click here.

"As always, there are many people in the NYPD working in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners to ensure that everyone who lives in, works in, or visits New York City has the opportunity to safely enjoy the greatest annual fireworks show in our nation," said Police Commissioner James P. O'Neill.

"While there are many ways we will be keeping you safe, that doesn't mean anybody should let their guard down," he said. "If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable, you have a responsibility to call 911 or flag down a police car and let us fully investigate it."