The Knicks watch party at Madison Square Garden is back for Game 4, but with much tighter security — and a “frozen zone” that will mirror the one seen earlier this week for the president’s attendance.
The NYPD has said to expect Times Square New Year’s Eve-level security and cautioned all fans would be subject to security screening.
Here’s what to expect starting at 4 p.m. Wednesday.
What is the secure zone?
The security perimeter will stretch from 29th Street to 35th Street between Sixth and Eighth avenues. Starting at 4 p.m. Wednesday, that area will be closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Eighth Avenue will remain open to vehicles, but it could be closed off if police deem it necessary.
Can I go to the MSG watch party tonight?
Only those with tickets will be allowed to attend, and everyone in attendance will have to go through security screening at the location, the NYPD said.
Those attending can only go through an access point on the west side of Sixth Avenue at West 33rd Street. Anyone who leaves the designated watch party area will not be allowed to re-enter, according to police.
The NYPD advised fans to avoid the area, unless they are going to the game or have business in the area. The only people who will be allowed into the restricted zone after 4 p.m. will be those with a ticket to the game, a train ticket, are going to a restaurant or bar in the area, live in the area, are credentialed, or have another authorized reason to be there.
Those looking to access the secured area can enter at:
The west side of Sixth Avenue at West 33rd Street. This is also where those with tickets to the watch party will enter.
The west side of Sixth Avenue at West 32nd Street.
The west side of Eighth Avenue at West 33rd Street.
The northeast corner of Eighth Avenue and West 30th Street.
What can I bring to MSG’s watch party?
An important note on what is allowed: No backpacks, bags, umbrellas, or alcohol will be allowed inside the secured area. The only exception will be for travelers using Penn Station to leave or enter the city, though their bags will still be screened, according to police.
The Knicks already announced a strict no-bag policy, and fans are urged to take as little as possible. The team also said there would be no storage at MSG for prohibited items brought to the arena. See the list.
Bars and restaurants inside the security perimeter will be able to operate with strict capacity limits. Anyone looking to go to one of the bars or restaurants will have to be screened as well.
News 4’s Charles Watson reports from Madison Square Garden
The Associated Press contributed to this report.