Atlanta Metro security tight amid new terror threat

ATLANTA -- U.S. intelligence officials have spread the word of a new terror threat coinciding with the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. Authorities across the nation are stepping up security measures, including in metro Atlanta.

U.S. intelligence officials describe the threat as a detailed al-Qaida car bomb plot. It involves bridges or tunnels in New York City or Washington, D.C. Officials said they're investigating three people who recently entered the United States. New York police have increased patrols and officers in the capital are now working 12-hour shifts.

Though there’s no credible threat to metro Atlanta’s transit system, security is tight at MARTA stations. Channel 2’s Darryn Moore went to the Indian Creek MARTA station in DeKalb County, where officials said they wouldn’t be taking any chances this weekend.

MARTA is considered a homeland security facility and receives federal assistance. Last year, MARTA police officers trained with federal, state and local agencies to prepare for terroristic threats. MARTA said it will be using all its resources to protect its customers and employees.

Airport officials and state agencies are also preparing for any potential threat.

"You have to treat it as such until you can confirm that it is not, said Jon Allen, of the Transportation Security Administration.

At Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson inteational airport, the TSA has spent more than $100 million in security upgrades since 9/11.

"No single layer of security might be impenetrable. That's why you put a whole lot in place, Allen said.

Georgia Emergency Management has upgraded its emergency communication system since 9/11. The new system will help first responders from different jurisdictions communicate with each other during a crisis.