Security presence at Times Square New Year's Eve to be largest ever

Dec. 27 (UPI) -- New York City's annual New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square will have unprecedented security measures, officials said.

The New York Police Department will have officers in every hotel along 7th Avenue, leading to 42nd Street in Manhattan, WCBS-TV reported. The officers can engage in a quick response if any rooftop or hotel room shooters are detected. The decision to station officers in hotels came after reviewing data from the Oct. 1 mass shooting in Las Vegas, in which a shooter opened fire on a concert from a hotel room window and killed dozens.

New York City has one fatal terrorist attack and a botched explosion that injured a handful of people in the past two months. More than 1 million people are expected to crowd Times Square to witness the ceremonial descent of an illuminated ball to mark the start of the new year.

For the first time, nearby garages will be closed. In the past, celebrants could leave the event in garaged cars and travel on roads otherwise closed to vehicle traffic. Rental truck companies will also be closely monitored, WABC-TV reported Tuesday.

In a statement, the city government said that umbrellas, backpacks and duffel bags will be prohibited. Those attending the events may not abandon property at checkpoints and attendees who leave before the ball drops will not be able to gain entry to their original viewing area. Alcoholic beverages are also banned.