Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that the committee will be co-chaired by Police Commissioner Bill Bratton and City Planning Commissioner Carl Weisbrod.
RELATED: Local nude Bollywood dancers take over Times Square
“Millions of families and visitors come to Times Square every year to see and experience the bustling metropolis of New York City – the Crossroads of the World,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Yet that experience has been diminished by the proliferation of topless individuals and costumed characters who too often harass people and expose families to inappropriate acts.”
The task force will also include representatives from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, Department of Transportation, Department of Consumer Affairs, Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice, NYC & Company, and Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development Alicia Glen.
Local elected officials as well as external stakeholders in the Times Square area will also be included and final membership has not been completed.
The group is tasked with studying the law behind these “performers” in Times Square and is to report any findings by October 1st.
“I am delighted to sit down with the Mayor and others who care about Times Square to hash out solutions to what has become a difficult situation,” said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. “ I'd like to keep this area safe and welcoming for New Yorkers and tourists, without trampling on people's rights or setting bad precedents. I know with the right people in the room, we will be able to accomplish this.”