NEWYORK: New York city Mayor Eric Adams said that NYC hit record numbers of tourism this year which is second highest number of tourists in New York City’s history.
“Sixty five million visitors to this city. And we ramped up as we wrap up tomorrow’s festivities. We will make sure each one of those who come here to visit and enjoy the ball drop will be safe,” Mayor Adams said during briefing on New Year’s eve safety.
“I’m really excited as we have spent so much time in preparation and to ensure that not only do we respond to any immediate threat as we saw two years ago, but how do we continue to keep New Yorkers and visitors safe to enjoy the New Year’s,” he said.
“Every year, thousands of people across the globe, they come here to Times Square and celebrate. They do something that I think is important. They spend a lot of money and I’m going to encourage them to continue to do so. Tourism is one of the most important aspects of our economy. And this year celebrates really move us into the upcoming year. And we can’t welcome wait to welcome the crowds to enjoy the New Year,” he said.
Mayor Adams said that it’s also an important historical moment for us as well as we have so much to celebrate, including New York City’s 400th anniversary.
“We came into office three years ago with a clear mission, affordability, public safety and improving our economy. And moving into 2025, we on course to do all of those things that we had in our plans and in our blueprint. And while thousands of people enjoy themselves, we’re going to make sure through all of our agencies involved from OEM to FDNY to the New York City Police Department, we’re going to make sure that they’re safe and enjoy this city,” he said.
“There’ll be officers in uniform and out of uniform. We’re going to make sure we have the omnipresence of the blue uniform would always bring that level of security. But there are many officers that have plainclothes assignments to give the element of surprise. And it would include officers from Patrol Service Bureau, the Transit Bureau, the Intelligence and Counterintelligence Bureau and Special Operation Division,” he said.
Regarding security arrangements, Mayor Adams said that we have plainclothes teams, canine teams and officers on horsebacks and helicopters and on boats. The full complement of our police personnel will be here and pedestrians and vehicle closures will be in effect.
He urged visitors to use public transportation to get to the event.
“There are certain items you cannot bring into the area. So if you want quick movement, leave large backpacks, coolers and alcoholic beverages out of the area. They’re strictly prohibited. And you could also find out what restrictions are in place beforehand before coming to the location. The lucky ones that are going to be up front and able to see the ball drop, dress warmly. We’re expecting rain. So we’re telling you to be prepared for the weather,” he said.
