More Security For Metro-North, Grand Central, MTA: Holidays 2017

In light of the terrorist attack Dec. 11 in NYC, the MTA and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey are adding security at Grand Central Terminal and on Metro-North, as well as all bridges, tunnels, airports and other mass transit systems throughout the holiday season. People and equipment are being deployed by state agencies, including heavily armed personnel, bomb-sniffing dogs, more surveillance and rapid response vehicles.

The New York State Police and National Guard will work with the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority Police, MTA Police Department, Port Authority Police Department and New York City Police Department in the coordinated effort.

"New York's status as an international symbol of freedom and democracy too often makes us a target for people who oppose our way of life, and we must remain vigilant and do everything we can to keep New Yorkers safe," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in an announcement. "The holiday season is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and out of an abundance of caution I am fortifying security throughout the region to ensure the safety and security of all New Yorkers and visitors."

The Special Operations Team deployment will include Grand Central, Penn Station, Port Authority Bus Terminal, all nine MTA-operated bridges and tunnels and Port Authority-operated bridges and tunnels, as well as LaGuardia and JFK airports.

Following last week's attack in a Times Square subway station, the MTA has also increased their patrols and surveillance in order to provide heightened protection at major rail hubs. The MTA Police Department has stepped up its uniformed and plainclothes presence in Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station as well as other major stations throughout the Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road network.

Police canine teams and units with heavy weapons will provide extra protection as well as a noticeable sign of increased security. Railroad customers will also see surge patrols, increased step-on/step-off patrols of trains, and random bag checks at various locations.

The New York State Police deployed additional resources to key transportation hubs in New York City. State Troopers will increase staffing and patrols at all MTA & Port Authority bridges, tunnels, airports and mass transit systems. In addition, during the busy holiday travel season, the New York National Guard's Joint Task Force Empire Shield will coordinate with partner agencies to ensure increased vigilance at New York City's transportation hubs.

In addition, the Port Authority has significantly increased its presence at all of the agency's bridge, tunnel, rail, bus terminals, World Trade, airports and other facilities following last week's attack. Following last week's incident, the Port Authority Bus Terminal will also see increased security presence. The Port Authority has also significantly increased the numbers of police officers, including long gun-carrying police officers, and deployed special tactical teams. Actions include increased patrols and checks of bags, buses, trucks and trains at agency locations.

Joseph J. Lhota, Chairman of the MTA said, "Our top priority is ensuring New Yorkers, and all visitors to our system, are able to enjoy their holidays with the knowledge that they are safe. I can assure visitors that our employees are trained and prepared for all situations, and we are working closely with the Governor's Office and other state and local agencies to ensure our bridges, tunnels, subways, commuter rails and buses are secure."

In coordination with these efforts, in the wake of the attack, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services was in close contact with key local public safety officials in New York City including NYPD, Port Authority, and MTA, as well the FBI. Commissioner Roger Parrino along with key staff from the Office of Emergency Management and Office of Counter Terrorism immediately rushed to the scene of the attack. The New York State Emergency Operations Center, as a precaution, was activated to Level 4 enhanced monitoring.

"If You See Something, Say Something"

New Yorkers are reminded to stay alert to their surroundings, and to report any suspicious activity. Reports can be made to the Counter Terrorism Center at the New York State Intelligence Center via its terrorism tip line: 1-866-SAFENYS (1-866-723-3697); or by email: ctcenter@nysic.ny.gov.

New Yorkers can also download See Something, Send Something on your smartphone to inform authorities of a potential threat. Click here for more information.

SEE ALSO:

• Akayed Ullah, NYC Bombing Suspect, Hit With Terror Charges: NYPD
• NYC Bombing Suspect's Family 'Outraged' By Their Treatment
• NYC Bomber: 5 Things Investigation Reveals About Akayed Ullah
• NYC Port Authority Terror Attacker Linked To ISIS, Officials Say

PHOTO/ Grand Central Terminal