Thousands of police officers, specialized units and surveillance resources will be deployed across New York City for Sunday’s marathon, as authorities prepare to protect approximately 60,000 runners and more than two million expected spectators.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch outlined the security arrangements Wednesday ahead of the November 1 race, which passes through all five boroughs before finishing in Central Park.
Officers will be stationed along the route, supported by bomb squad personnel, emergency services teams, mounted police and canine units. Harbor and aviation units will also assist with security operations.
The NYPD will use helicopters and drones to monitor the event. Hundreds of strategically positioned vehicles will serve as protective barriers, alongside more than 10,000 metal barricades separating the course from surrounding traffic.
Tisch said there were no known specific or credible threats to this year’s marathon. She added that some security measures would remain out of public view.
The race begins at the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge on Staten Island. Its timing, the morning after Halloween, adds to a busy weekend for police and emergency services.
Authorities’ preparations aim to keep the course secure while accommodating the large crowds expected to gather throughout the city.
