City Officials Discuss Boston Marathon Security

Security on the route of the Boston Marathon in 2015. (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA (WBZ-AM/24/7 News Source) --  Security will be tight at the Boston Marathon once again. 

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Mayor Marty Walsh outlined a comprehensive safety plan to cover the marathon itself as well as other associated events.

The Boston Police Department will have a large presence during the race, with rooftop observation teams, plainclothes officers, and SWAT and Hazmat teams along the course.  

"We'll be activating our emergency operations center to coordinate all city agencies," Walsh said.

There will be security checkpoints for spectators, and all bags will be searched.  

Those headed to the race are encouraged to leave bags at home or use a clear bag to make the lines move faster.  

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing.  

Mobile Cell Towers To Aid Public Safety Communication At Boston Marathon - Thumbnail Image

Mobile Cell Towers To Aid Public Safety Communication At Boston Marathon

Boston Police Commissioner William Evans says there are no threats to the race, but as always the department will remain vigilant.

"We'll be as low-key as we possibly can out there, but we'll be ready if something should happen," Evans said.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh advised spectators to take public transportation.

He also outlined several parking restrictions and road closures taking place over the weekend and on Marathon Monday.

Sections of both Huntington Avenue and Newbury Street will be pedestrian-only.

Traffic leading into the Marathon routes east of Massachusetts Avenue will be closed at 8 a.m., with routes west of Mass Ave closed at 9 a.m.

Walsh said the closures and restrictions would be in effect until around 5:30 p.m. Monday.

There are 30,000 runners expected in Monday's marathon, with more than half running it for the first time.

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WBZ NewsRadio1030’s Carl Stevens reports


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