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As excitement builds for what may be one of the biggest sporting events ever held on Long Island, local and state authorities are preparing for an unprecedented level of crowd and security management.
Maj. Stephen Udice, of the New York State Police Troop L, says preparations have been underway for over a year to secure the Ryder Cup, which is expected to draw approximately 50,000 spectators per day to Bethpage Black, totaling a quarter of a million over the course of the event.
“I would say this is probably going to be one of the biggest events ever held on Long Island,” said Major Udice. “I would stay away from the entire area,” he added, warning the public about extensive road closures and significant traffic disruptions.
To ensure safety, police presence at the event will be highly visible, and deeply embedded. State police will deploy numerous K-9 units trained to detect explosives. These teams will be sweeping the grounds hours before spectators arrive, ensuring a secure environment for attendees.
In addition to uniformed officers, plainclothes police will be strategically placed throughout the crowd.
“We have officers infiltrated within the crowds so they can keep us updated as to what’s going on,” said Maj. Udice.
Surveillance will also take to the skies, with drones providing real-time aerial views of the course and surrounding areas. “They can see real time what is going on,” a trooper confirmed, emphasizing the role drone technology now plays in large-scale event security.
Security will be further intensified later in the week, with the anticipated arrival of President Donald Trump on Friday.
“That is one of the things we have considered throughout our planning,” said Maj. Udice, indicating law enforcement is well-prepared for the added challenge.
With the eyes of the world on Long Island, and hundreds of thousands expected to gather, authorities are urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant and patient as security measures are enforced.
