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A packed New York City is about to get even more crowded with fans hoping to catch a glimpse of Taylor Swift heading to her wedding, and the NYPD has been warned about the influx of Swifties that could congregate around
Madison Square Garden.
Swift’s wedding to Kansas City Chiefs superstar Travis Kelce has long been rumored to take place at MSG, the home of the now-champion New York Knicks, the New York Rangers and scores of concerts and special entertainment events. The arena also sits in the middle of an exceedingly busy area of Midtown, adjacent to one of the city’s biggest transportation hubs. As a result, police who patrol the area say they have been warned about the July 3 wedding potentially drawing scores of fans to an already congested area.
Variety spoke to two NYPD officers patrolling around MSG on June 24, who agreed to speak if they could remain anonymous, to avoid any repercussions at work. Both cops said that they have been briefed about a potential influx of Taylor Swift fans, paparazzi and onlookers on the day, and that it’s been a topic of discussion and amusement when chatting with their friends on the force.
That said, officers have had no shortage of huge crowds in the area as of late, as June brought both championship Knicks games to MSG, as well as a surge of World Cup commuters on public transportation running from the arena to MetLife Stadium.
Despite MSG being a conspicuous venue, it makes sense for Swift in terms of keeping her wedding private and secure, as it doesn’t allow for overhead photography or people sneaking in, and features accommodations like secure parking and drop-off. It can also stage musical performances, in case Swift or any of her friends want to serenade the crowd.
Alternatively, maybe it’s all a fake-out to keep looky-loos away from the real venue.
The New York Times was the first to report on area police getting briefed about the wedding.
