UTICA, N.Y. -- The City of Utica is getting a running start toward funding security for this year's Boilermaker Road Race. Race officials donated $10,000 to the city to help cover overtime costs for police during the event. The city was recently forced to make big cuts to public safety as a result of this year's budget.

Organizers said they wanted to make the voluntary donation in honor of the 35 years of support the community has shown for the race.

"You know, we just think it's important to support the city that supported us for all these years. This is a big community event and the city has sort of adopted us and it's important for us to give back,” said Tim Reed, Boilermaker Road Race Executive Director.

Boilermaker officials said 18,000 people will be on city streets during July's race, with 40,000 expected at the after-party.