A police presence at an "unprecedented" level is promised for Twin Cities Pride festivities this weekend in and near downtown Minneapolis, officials said Thursday.

The pledge comes in the wake of the June 12 mass killing of 49 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando.

"The Minneapolis Police Department has a proud history of ensuring safe and successful Twin Cities Pride events," the department said in announcing its intentions. "This year ... the MPD will significantly increase its resources to ensure that track record continues."

Attendees of the various events "will see a noticeable and visible increase of uniformed officers," the department statement said.

Also being added are police on horseback and bicycles, along with increased patrols by K-9 units.

Joining Minneapolis police with security will be personnel with the Park Police, Metro Transit and the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.

"This level of presence is unprecedented as we want to address the safety concerns we've heard about from our community," Chief Janeé Harteau said in a statement announcing the ramped-up visibility. "We want to ensure everyone feels, and is, safe."

Paul Walsh