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UTICA, N.Y. -- City officials in Utica say starting this spring, they could be charging restaurants and bars on Varick Street about $20,000 for extra security during Saranac Thursdays.

The popular weekly event begins May 24th and is known for bringing large crowds to Varick Street.

Police say cuts to staffing and funds make it impossible to devote the same number of officers to the event this year.

Mayor Robert Palmieri says Varick Street's bars and restaurants want to keep the same level of resources in order to keep people coming back to a safe event.

"That was a concern that we brought to the table and they came back to us and said they'd be more than happy to share in some of that cost," Palmieri said.

Police say if the bars and restaurants do not pay for the services, extra officers will not be on hand, but will be available to respond to calls.