NYC Marathon organizers awaiting word from city

NEW YORK (AP) - NYC Marathon organizers say they're moving forward with plans for Sunday's race but await final word from city officials on whether the event can go on after Superstorm Sandy.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg had said Tuesday that he expected the marathon would be run. The city must determine whether holding the race would be safe and viable with flooding, power outages and transit shutdowns still afflicting the five boroughs.

New York Road Runners President Mary Wittenberg said Wednesday that organizers were preparing to use more private contractors than past years to reduce the strain on city services. Wittenberg insists the race can be an inspiration to New Yorkers and benefit businesses that have lost money because of the storm.