Chicago police outline New Year's Eve safety plans
CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Police Department and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications outlined their plans Monday to keep the city safe this New Year's Eve in the wake of a deadly and violent weekend in Chicago.
At least five people were killed and more than 20 others were hurt in multiple shooting incidents.
WATCH: CPD details New Year's Eve safety plan
For New Year's Eve, the Chicago Police Department says it will be deploying an additional 1,300 officers across the city.
RELATED: New Laws 2020: Illinois laws that take effect January 1
Canine officers will monitor the CTA and other large gathering places. Officers will also patrol on bicycles. Many of these specialized units will be part of a team of 300 additional officers that will be deployed specifically for the fireworks display planned for the Chicago River from Wolf Point near the Franklin/Orleans Bridge to east of Columbus Drive. A separate fireworks display at Navy Pier will also have extra officers dedicated to it.
"We will also have plainclothes officers at events mingling within the crowds in a discrete manner to watch for public gatherings," said Chief Fred Waller, Chicago Police Department.
The Chicago Riverwalk will close at 10 p.m. Tuesday and no fireworks viewing will be allowed on the Riverwalk.
Officials encourage anyone who sees something suspicious or unsafe to call 911 without hesitation.
"The City of Chicago has worked with organizers of the Chicago River and Navy Pier Fireworks to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for residents and spectators," said OEMC Executive Director Rich Guidice. "As always, we will work with our public safety partners to monitor conditions across the city, and make adjustments if necessary."
Starting at 4 p.m., sidewalks on one side of each of the following bridges will be closed: Franklin/Orleans Street Bridge (west sidewalk), LaSalle Street Bridge (east sidewalk), Clark Street Bridge (east sidewalk), Dearborn Street Bridge (east sidewalk), and State Street Bridge (east sidewalk). The bridges will close completely beginning at 11 p.m., and eastbound Upper Wacker Drive will close to vehicular traffic to allow for viewing of the fireworks. Streets are expected to reopen approximately 10 minutes after the fireworks display.
Regardless of where you're celebrating, State Police say they're on the lookout for drunk drivers.
"If you've been drinking any amount of alcohol, don't drive," said Lt. Col. David Byrd, Illinois State Police.
State police also warned revelers to make sure everyone in the car, front and back seats, is wearing their seatbelt, and to reduce speed when approaching other vehicles.
State police said with recreational marijuana becoming legal on January 1, their sobriety test for both cannabis and alcohol will remain the same.
