By james art
NEW YORK — The New York Police Department is beefing up security outside Madison Square Garden before former President Donald Trump’s campaign rally on Sunday.
Trump is scheduled to take the stage at the iconic venue at 5 p.m
Mayor Eric Adams joined Interim Police Commissioner Thomas Donlon and members of the NYPD late Saturday afternoon in saying the department was fully prepared for the rally.
Street closures around Madison Square Garden due to Trump rally
The following streets will be closed to both motorists and pedestrians from early Sunday morning:
- 33rd Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue
- 32nd Street between Sixth Avenue and Seventh Avenue
- 31st Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue
- 30th Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue
Additionally, Seventh Avenue will be closed to pedestrians from 34th Street to 29th Street.
Subway service will not be affected, and New Yorkers are encouraged to take the train if heading to the rally or the surrounding area. Adams says there will be “special procedures” for motorcyclists exiting the stations around Madison Square Garden.
Anyone who does not need to be in the area is encouraged to avoid it.
New York police beef up security outside MSG for Trump campaign rally
Teams with heavy weapons and counter-terrorism units will be present in the area on Sunday, officials said.
“Tomorrow’s rally will be safe, it will be secure, and we’re doing everything we can to minimize the impact on New Yorkers, but again, if you don’t need to be in the MSG area tomorrow, please don’t be,” Donlon said .
Authorities say there are no real threats to the event.
The city is expecting protesters, but the mayor says the NYPD is ready to respond.
“While we always respect and protect the right to peaceful protest, there will be zero tolerance for crime, blocking traffic, graffiti or disorderly conduct,” Adams said.