Boston Marathon security force doubled for 2014

The  2014 Boston Marathon security will be more than doubled from last year’s event, that saw two bombs detonated at the finish line.

There will be more than 3,500 police officers guarding the course this year and the freedom spectators have will be tightened. Security forces have asked spectators to bring their belongings in clear plastic bags and have advised them to not bring backpacks or coolers. Those who do bring backpacks will be subject to search at security clearance checkpoints.

There will also be hundreds of security cameras set up along the route and business have been asked to allow their camera to be used by police.

“We are confident that the overall experience of runners and spectators will not be impacted and all will enjoy a fun, festive and family-oriented day,” Kurt Schwartz, director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, told the New York Times.

There are expected to be over a million spectators, double what there has been in previous years.

It was also made clear the security increases will not necessarily apply to the 2015 race and beyond.