'Credible' Terror Threat Leads to Beefed Up City Security

A "credible," but unconfirmed, threat of an attack targeted at New York or Washington D.C. led Mayor Bloomberg to ramp up the already heightened state of precaution surrounding the September 11 anniversary.

"Federal authorities, as you know, have announced that they’ve received credible information that terrorists may be plotting an attack in the coming days." said Bloomberg Thursday night.

"Now, as we approach the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the NYPD, FBI, and the entire intelligence community have been on heightened alert—because we know that terrorists view the anniversary as an opportunity to strike again," he said.

Even though officials said the possibility of an attac is still unconfirmed, very few details were provided about the threat itself other than it may involve using truck or car bombs.

"It is credible, but it has not been corroborated," the mayor said. "But we do live in a world where we must take these threats seriously, and we certainly will."

Bloomberg and NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly announced a series of extra security measures being put in place—including heightened "security at MTA bridges, tunnels, and other transit infrastructure"—and urged people to keep their eyes open and stick to the motto: "If you see something, say something."

If you spot a backpack, box, or anything left unattended or seemingly suspicious, Bloomberg repeatedly encouraged people to call 311. "And if you see something that you think is potentially dangerous, call 911," he said.

Kelly said in the coming days additional operators will be manning the 311 system and security will be added to watch over city landmarks, transit hubs like Grand Central Station and religious institutions.

He added that cars left parked for significant amounts of time will be towed; more bomb sniffing dogs will be deployed and subway commuters can expect an increase in random bag checks.

"What we have to do is not let the terrorists win by intimidation, and we haven’t in New York," said Bloomberg. "New York City has come back stronger than ever."