Police Preparing For A Crowded First Night Downtown
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - Pittsburgh Public Safety is preparing for large crowds downtown for First Night 2020.
The annual indoor/outdoor event attracts thousands to the Golden Triangle every December 31.
“By working with our partners at the Cultural Trust, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and regional law enforcement departments, Pittsburgh Public Safety will be there to assure a safe experience for all,” Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said in a statement. “First Night is a special night in Pittsburgh. We’re going to keep it that way. Anyone interested in engaging in illegal activities is advised to just stay home.”
Authorities also warn against shooting guns into the air to celebrate the New Year.
What goes up must come down, and the results are tragic when people are hit by celebratory gunfire. Police will observe ShotSpotter activations throughout the city and officers will arrest anyone caught discharging a firearm in public.
Pittsburgh Police along with State Police, State Park Rangers, Port Authority Police, Allegheny County Police and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office will be patrolling downtown in uniform with some in plainclothes.
The mounted police unit along with River Rescue will also be on duty.
Authorities will also be looking for drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol.
The city also reminds people that the use of any fireworks, even legal ones are illegal to use within 150 feet of a structure.
Those who plan on attending First Night can purchase a button here for $10 to enjoy over 100 events throughout Pittsburgh’s Cultural District.
Many of the events kick off at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
The current forecast for New Year’s Eve is a high of 40 with lows in the upper 20s and flurries.
Road closures will begin as early as 10 a.m. on New Year's Eve.
