NYPD Helps Facilitate New Pride March Route
June 22, 2018
The NYPD and New York City Pride March organizers announced a new route and comprehensive security plan for Sunday’s march. The 49th annual pride march traditionally proceeds through Midtown and the West Village, passing by the historic Stonewall Inn. This year the march will step-off at 16th Street and 7th Avenue, travel southbound on 7th Avenue, before proceeding east on Christopher and West 8th Streets, and then the Fifth Avenue portion of the parade will be northbound through the dispersal point at 29th Street. The change in route was a result of collaboration between pride march organizers and the NYPD in part due to expected historic attendance for WorldPride and the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in 2019. The route change will also provide greater viewing areas as well as an Americans with Disabilities Act viewing area.
"The members of the NYPD work hard every day to ensure the safety, security, and enjoyment of all who participate in or attend the many events held throughout our city," said Police Commissioner James P. O'Neill. "We are pleased that our great working relationship with organizers of the Heritage of Pride March has developed a plan and a route that stands to enhance the experience for spectators, and greatly reduce the wait times for the hundreds of marching groups eager to step off."
"The Pride March is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come in the fight for LGBTQ equality, and reaffirm our commitment to being an inclusive and diverse City," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "This new route will allow more New Yorkers to enjoy the march and keep everyone safe."
"At a time when many in our community feel our progress, our movement and our history is being erased, the Gay Officers Action League supports the rights of all participants to express themselves freely," said Brian Downey, President of the Gay Officers Action League. “Whether you are there to resist, to celebrate or a little of both, we wish everyone a safe and happy Pride."
As in years past, the NYPD will deploy officers to ensure a safe and fun event. There will be both uniformed and plainclothes officers assigned to the detail. As always, the NYPD encourages anyone who may see something that appears to be suspicious to find a police officer, call 911, or call the terrorism tip line at 1-888-NYC-SAFE.