The NYPD has its officers out in full force, even in areas known as soft targets like bustling restaurants and bars. Marc Santia reports.
Five days after three teams of terrorists targeted a rock concert and popular night spots in Paris, killing 129 people and wounding 368 more, there remains a heavy police presence across New York City, particularly at key transit hubs like Grand Central Terminal and so-called soft targets like theaters and stores, as the holiday season gets into full swing.
The National Guard, MTA police officers, state troopers and the NYPD have been patrolling the city's busiest train and bus stations to provide an extra layer of security after the deadly attacks in the French capital. They'll also have a heavy presence at the upcoming Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 26.
"I have no concerns about security for that parade," Police Commissioner Bill Bratton said Wednesday, minutes after meeting with an FBI director. The commissioner even made his promise personal.
"I'm flying my family in from Los Angeles. I'll be happily watching that parade with them," Bratton said.
MTA Chairman Tom Prendergast said beefed-up security at the city's transit hubs isn't based on a new terror threat, but proven intelligence that rail systems are at risk.
"There have been no specific threats to our system related to these attacks, but we've nonetheless significantly stepped up our security efforts," Prendergast said.
The MTA head also said that there hasn't been a tactical change since the Paris attacks, just more security, including at Fulton Street station near the World Trade Center.
"There's definitely more cops at that station by the World Trade area," commuter Angie Elizer said.
It's unclear how long the extra force — usually with officers on 12-hour shifts — will last. But the sight of police officers wearing helmets and holding assault rifles has become increasingly familiar to New Yorkers.
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"I see them armed and ready," Tony, a commuter, said. "Heavily armed and ready."
Some commuters said that it feels like the city's transit hubs have been on high alert for 14 years.
"Since 9/11, yes, we are a target," Patricia Watkins, of Jersey City, said. "And it is appreciated, whether people feel it's necessary or not. It's appreciated."
It's not just high-profile events but everyday locations that are getting special attention from the NYPD's new Critical Response Command. That's because these so-called soft targets have been eyed by ISIS-inspired terrorists, from Paris to Syndey.
Some New Yorkers are choosing to skip stores altogether after the attacks in Paris. Angela Workman won't be window shopping this holiday season.
"I'll probably be shopping online. I don't feel secure going into stores," Workman, who lives in Manhattan, said. "That really scared me more than anything. That's the type of activities I love to do... sit out on the sidewalks, dine and relax with my friends."
Entertainment centers are also making sure they have plenty of security for the holidays, when tourism peaks in the city.
The Broadway League said Wednesday that it has "extensive security procedures in our theatres and in the theatre district" to help protect theater-goers hitting up Broadway shows.
Lincoln Center said it's working closely with police and city officials to make sure its campus is safe and secure. Radio City Music Hall is also making security a top priority.
