Thousands of NYPD officers, security checks in place for NYC's Fourth of July events
Local and federal officials are ramping up security for the huge Fourth of July celebration in New York City.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and officials from the Coast Guard discussed the security efforts at a press conference Wednesday.
"Heightened-threat environment"
The officials emphasized there will be a very heavy law enforcement presence across the five boroughs during the Sail4th 250 event and the Macy's fireworks show. Plans are so intense, officers will work 12-hour tours and will not be able to leave their posts unless relieved by another officer in person.
"We continue to operate in a heightened-threat environment as we work to safeguard the events over the next several days," Tisch said. "Conflicts overseas have resulted in a spate of terrorism and targeted violence around the world, as well as attacks and attempted attacks here in the United States. But I want to emphasize there are no known specific or credible threats."
Viewers will be subjected to metal detectors and bag checks.
The following items are prohibited:
- Drones
- Alcohol
- Umbrellas
- Backpacks
- Coolers
- Lawn chairs
- Blankets
- Any item that could obstruct others' view or pose a safety risk
Security at Sail4th 250
Sail4th 250 is a days-long event that will be the largest parade of tall ships ever assembled. It features 40 vessels that will sail from the Verrazano Bridge.
Tisch said there will be a large law enforcement presence along the waterfront, including K-9 teams, heavy weapons units, the bomb squad, and aviation teams. As for drones, Tisch said 97 violated flight restrictions for both the World Cup and watch parties. As a result, the NYPD's anti-drone squad will be out in full force.
"The message is clear. If there is any illegal drone activity that violates our temporary flight restrictions, your drone will be seized," Tisch said.
The West Side Highway will be closed intermittently to vehicular traffic below 59th Street until about 2 p.m.
Anyone who would like to see the parade can enter at the following access points:
- West 55th
- West 44th
- West 24th
- West 11th
- Christopher Street
- Laight Street
- Riverside Park
Anyone entering Riverside Park will also be subjected to a security check.
Times Square ball drops
America 250 is hosting ball drops at One Times Square, taking place in each time zone of a U.S. territory.
Unlike the New Year's Eve celebrations, there are no plans for a mass gathering in Times Square for the ball drops. Instead, they will be broadcast and live-streamed.
The first ball drop will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, marking midnight in Guam. The next one will take place at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, and then hourly for each U.S. time zone from then on. The final one will be held at 7 a.m., marking midnight in America Somoa.
About the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks
In the evening of July 4th, Macy's will put on its 50th annual fireworks show in Lower Manhattan, with barges full of fireworks set to be positioned in the East River and the Hudson River.
There are three entry points for public viewing of the show on the elevated portion of the FDR Drive:
- Montgomery Street and Madison Street
- The Brooklyn Bridge on- and off-ramps at Robert Wagner Place
- Broad Street and Water Street
Other designated areas are reserved for tickerholders.
The show kicks off at 9:25 p.m. and is expected to wrap up by 10 p.m. More than 80,000 shells are expected to be used.
Extreme heat safety
The entire Tri-State Area is under an Extreme Heat Warning for the days leading up to and on the Fourth of July.
Anyone going to any events should drink water throughout the day and make sure to take breaks inside.
Spectators should wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a hat. Sunscreen is also imperative.
