Officials Promise Tight Security For Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- As expected there will be tighter security than in the past, at this year's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

With huge crowds and a national TV audience, all eyes will be on the floats, balloons, and marchers on Thursday. That includes the eyes of the NYPD.

As 1010 WINS' Al Jones reported, NYPD Assistant Chief Rodney Harrison said the route itself will be blocked off.

"We're gonna have more sand trucks, as well as blocker cars assisting in helping the route," he said.

Heavy weapons teams, officers on roofs with long guns, and k9 explosive teams will be in the crowd. Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism John Miller called the parade a very well protected event.

"We encourage everybody to come, to have a good time. I always come, I bring my family, and I hope everybody comes and brings theirs too," Miller said.