SYRACUSE, NY – Sleepy-eyed train passengers said it was comforting to see federal inspectors checking baggage for explosives as the government began a new security initiative at upstate New York rail stations on Friday.
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“We travel Amtrak all the time, and I’ve always been uneasy because there’s really not a lot of security,” said Kathy Couteure of Fulton, N.Y., who was heading to Florida with her husband.
“Security is important so this is great. It certainly gives me an extra sense of comfort – and we have nothing to hide so I don’t mind them checking our luggage,” Couteure said.
Transportation Security Administration officials announced last week that they would begin looking for bombs in the baggage of train passengers at several upstate New York rail stations starting on Friday. The inspections are part of a new nationwide homeland security initiative and a shift after years of focusing on aviation and airport security, said Federal Security Director Gary Milano.
The inspections were publicized in advance so train riders could get accustomed to the new procedure. Future inspections will be unannounced and will be extended to Utica, Rome and eventually Albany. [AP]
