New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke to reporters at a Friday press conference regarding the city’s extensive police presence and permits for the event, which sparked questions over who would cover the cost.
“Taylor Swift will be paying ... has paid already, the cost of the permit that was lodged, which was over $160,000 for that event and for the response to that event,” he told reporters. “That was a permit that was finalized, I think, in just the days before the event itself.”
The day before, about 100 guests arrived at the Infosys Theater inside MSG for a rehearsal dinner that ran from 6 p.m. to around 10:30 p.m. local time.
Mamdani’s remarks follow days of public scrutiny surrounding the scale of security required for the two-day celebration, which drew significant crowds, celebrity guests, and spectators.
“Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce should reimburse NYPD for the 130 officers needed per day to keep their multimillion-dollar, thousand person wedding at MSG safe,” wrote Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis for New York’s 11th district on X. “Our officers are already working overtime for 4th of July festivities & NYC taxpayers should NOT be on the hook.”
In the days leading up to the nuptials, the New York Police Department (NYPD) deployed officers for traffic management, crowd control, and security around the venue.
Public records at the time showed the city issued permits to close nearby streets, allow a canopy or tent set-up at the arena, and also allow the loading and unloading of theatrical materials at MSG.
For weeks, the popular sports and entertainment arena was at the center of extensive wedding preparations, with delivery trucks, elaborate décor, catering supplies, and crews spotted transforming MSG for the over-the-top event.
Large-scale gatherings involving well-known celebrities often require coordination between private security teams and local law enforcement, particularly when crowds are expected to gather outside venues and road closures are necessary to maintain public safety.
Most NYPD overtime is funded through New York City’s budget. However, organizers of certain private events may be required to reimburse the city for costs associated with permits, traffic control, police details, and other municipal services provided in connection with their events.
The city has not provided a detailed breakdown of the payment, making it unclear exactly how much of the more than $160,000 covered permits, police services, traffic control, or other operational costs tied to the event.
