Avoid These Areas: Live Police Drills in Albany – What You Need to Know

New York State Police announce a live training drill at Empire State Plaza and surrounding areas of Albany. The public is asked to avoid the area. 

According to the New York Homeland Security and Emergency Services New York State Police conduct training exercises, such as the one planned this month, to prepare officers for real-life emergencies by practicing their response in realistic scenarios. These exercises are designed to simulate various critical incidents, such as active shooter events, to help keep the public safe.

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The New York State Police have announced a live training drill planned for Saturday October 25, 2025. This drill will take place in thee Capitol Building, Legislative Office Building, Robert Abrams Building, and Empire State Plaza in Albany.

The Capitol Building, Legislative Office Building, parts of the Empire State Plaza  Concourse, and the visitor parking lot below the Plaza will be closed for the exercise.

Although not an every day occurrence, these training drills are not uncommon. In June of 2025 National Guard troops and New York law enforcement officials conducted a hazmat training exercise drills around the Albany area.

For that exercise Albany Police, New York National Guard Civil Support Teams, Albany Fire Fighters and New York State Troopers conducted training drills at the Palace Theatre, Port of Albany and the USS Slater on Broadway.

What should you do? Stay clear of the area. If you see officers conducting an exercise, maintain a safe distance and do not try to approach them. The area may contain props, role-players, and simulated dangers that are not safe for civilians.