A Boston Marathon Safety Message from the Boston Police

The Boston Police have issued the following statement regarding safety and behavior during the 2016 Boston Marathon. If you are planning to attend the marathon this upcoming Monday, please make yourself aware of the following precautions the Boston Police and other entities will be taking.

Dear Students and Administrators:

On Monday, April 18th, Boston will host the 120th running of the Boston Marathon. For many reasons, this is a historic day in Boston and as you’re well aware this will be the third race held since the bombings in 2013. In conjunction with partners, both public and private, the Boston Police Department has developed a safety and security plan for the 2016 events to ensure both athletes and spectators who participate feel safe. We have more cameras along the route in Boston and in addition to uniformed personnel there will be officers who are undercover working the crowd. In addition to safety measures on site, we are constantly monitoring events as they play out, not only across the country, but internationally. Marathon related activities are hosted all weekend long and the Boston Police Department has planned security measures for each.

The safety and security plan for Monday April 18th includes:

• Addition of cameras along the Boston portion of the Marathon route and upwards of 50 observation points will be set up along the finish line area in the Back Bay to monitor the crowd.
• Additional ambulances, Boston EMS personnel and medical tents along the Boston portion of the route.
• Newbury Street and Huntington Avenue outbound will be closed to vehicular traffic to allow easier spectator movement in the area.
• Vehicular traffic will also be prohibited on many streets in Boston on the days leading up to the Marathon. For information on street closures and parking restrictions please visit www.BPDNews.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get up to date information.

If you plan on attending the events, please remember:

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings. “If you see something, say something.” We encourage spectators to call 9-1-1 in an emergency or if they see suspicious activity.
• All public drinking, open containers and intoxication will not be tolerated.
• Congregating on rooftops, fire escapes and porches is prohibited.
• In this time of heightened security we appreciate you not bringing backpacks to the marathon. These items are not banned however individuals may be subject to search.
• It is recommended that you take the MBTA to travel due to the large volume of visitors who come in to the city.

It is our hope that you enjoy Marathon Monday and celebrate in a safe and respectful manner. The events over the last two years have gone smoothly and we attribute much of that to the cooperation from individuals who attended the events and acted accordingly. The City of Boston takes pride in this event, and we ask that you play a role in our effort to ensure that we are a shining example of good sportsmanship, pride and most of all resilience.

William B. Evans
Police Commissioner