A crackdown is now underway to keep pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists safe.
Police say anyone caught impaired behind the wheel will be arrested.
City Hall is also supporting a move in Albany to make the laws on drunken driving even tougher.
"The threshold for blood alcohol content has been at 0.08%, it needs to be lower to 0.05% and that is what over 100 nations around the world have already done," said New York State Sen. John Liu.
Officials say that research shows lowering the threshold to 0.05% could lead to an estimated over 10% decrease in DWI fatalities across New York State.
Police advise New Yorkers to plan ahead for their New Year's Eve celebrations -- use mass transit, taxis or car services if you plan to drink.
"New Year's is a joyful time to spend with family and friends; let's ensure all New Yorkers have that opportunity this year by making safe travel plans this holiday season," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
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First look at bow tie-patterned Times Square ball ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations
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