In case you haven’t heard yet, this happened today:
Whether New York City and NYRR should have continued with the event has actually become quite the hot issue today. Just read the comments here. And here.
The overwhelming concern is that it would be “too much, too soon.” Insensitive to those who have lost their homes or are yet without power. Draining much-needed resources — police, firefighters, medics — who would need to be reassigned to monitor road closures rather than help with recovery efforts.
NYRR, on the other hand, have said they will lean more heavily on private contractors for logistical support. I hope they do. It’s true that the NYPD is critical to the success of the event, and likely their efforts will still be needed elsewhere in recovery efforts. Perhaps NYRR can fill in any gaps with private contractors? Volunteers?
May I suggest, too, that NYRR direct all profit generated by New York City Marathon registration fees to recovery efforts? Not portions of it, but all. Specifically for recovery efforts. Right now. Read more