Bringing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to New York City: A Special Delivery
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is an iconic Big Apple staple that draws thousands of spectators from all over the state, but also from around the world to marvel at its splendor each year. However, the process of bringing it from out of state is not an easy one.
A Big Job Requires Special Care
For starters, the tree is enormous; this year’s Norway spruce, cut down in western Massachusetts, is 74 feet tall and weighs 11 tons. Such a tree cannot just be tied to the roof of an SUV; it has to be loaded onto a specialized wide-load tractor-trailer, requiring a carefully coordinated police escort to safely transport the spruce to Rockefeller Plaza.
A Special Escort
This special transport took place late on November 8, when the NYPD Highway Patrol and the New York State Police teamed up to escort the Rockefeller tree from the New York/Massachusetts state line to Midtown Manhattan.
A Well-Planned Route
Police Officer Dan Gorga of the NYPD Highway Patrol outlined the details of the festive yet serious operation. "The role that we provide is to block exit ramps to make sure that no unauthorized vehicles come onto the route," Gorga said. "There are no cars that don’t have a purpose in this escort on the roadway. We want to make sure we get it there as quickly as possible and as safely as possible."
A Spectacle on the Streets
The NYPD Highway Patrol met the State Police tree escort in Yonkers, blocking off intersection by intersection, exit by exit, as the tractor-trailer bearing the tree made its way southbound. At first, stopped drivers found themselves frustrated by the spectacle – but their frustrations quickly melted once they realized the cargo being hauled was the city’s biggest holiday landmark. Drivers whipped out their cellphones and photographed and videoed the tree on its fateful journey – a sight that delighted Gorga.
A Holiday Treat for New Yorkers
Once the convoy hit 125th Street and 2nd Avenue, a patrol vehicle began to play holiday music, sparking the curiosity of New Yorkers along the side streets. Some began to cheer and clap as the enormous tree made its way to Midtown; others even shouted "Merry Christmas!" and sang holiday carols.
A Grand Arrival
The grand journey came to an end outside of Rockefeller Plaza, where the tree remained parked until November 9, when crews will upright the big spruce and prepare it for decoration. By the time the Rockefeller Center tree lighting takes place on December 4, the big spruce will be covered in thousands of lights and decorations that tens of thousands of visitors to the area will enjoy throughout the holiday season.
A Final Farewell for a Long-Time Escort
For Lieutenant Alan Simmons, this year’s tree escort was bittersweet; it was his 34th and final such operation, as he will soon be retiring. "It was a well-planned out route," Lieutenant Simmons said. "It’s a good feeling. I’ve been doing it for 34 years, and this will be the last one, so it’s a good way to go out."
Conclusion
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a beloved holiday tradition, and its arrival in New York City is a special event that brings joy to many. The NYPD Highway Patrol and the New York State Police work tirelessly to ensure a safe and successful transport, and their efforts are rewarded by the enthusiastic response of New Yorkers and visitors alike.
FAQs
Q: How big is the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree?
A: This year’s tree is 74 feet tall and weighs 11 tons.
Q: Where does the tree come from?
A: This year’s tree is from western Massachusetts.
Q: How is the tree transported to Rockefeller Plaza?
A: The tree is loaded onto a specialized wide-load tractor-trailer and escorted by the NYPD Highway Patrol and the New York State Police.
Q: When is the Rockefeller Center tree lighting?
A: The tree lighting takes place on December 4.
