Officials Talk Security, Transportation For Winter Classic

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- With the Winter Classic around the corner, local officials talked about preparing for the event.

"Pittsburgh will be the focus of the hockey world, not only the hockey world but the sports world," said Penguins General Manager David Morehouse.

The Port Authority announced that thanks to Pepsi Max, all rides on the bus, T, and incline will be free on New Year's Day. It's a big help for the tens of thousands of people expected in the area.

After the incident during Light Up Night, the city says there will be plenty of officers on hand for the Winter Classic.

"We're going to have extra safety patrols downtown and on the North Shore over the weekend," Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said.

Hotels downtown and on the North Shore are sold out, with big crowds expected at the Stage AE skating rink which opens Christmas Eve.

Meantime, there is a chance for you to win tickets to the Winter Classic at a Noon pep rally on Dec. 30 in Market Square. Anyone attending will get a chance to win tickets to the sold out New Year's Day game.