Boston ups July 4th security, revelers resolute

BOSTON » For many New Englanders, the Fourth of July means the Boston Pops performing the "1812 Overture" on the Charles River Esplanade and fireworks booming overhead.

This year, it’s also the city’s first large public gathering since the Boston Marathon bombings — an attack that authorities have said the suspects first considered staging on Independence Day.

But as law enforcement officials put a ramped-up security plan in place today, many people in Boston said they wouldn’t give in to fear of terrorism by changing their plans or staying away from public celebrations.

Catherine Lawrie, a 54-year-old Massachusetts Senate employee, walked down near the Esplanade to hear some of the performers rehearse today.

She was disappointed a footbridge to the river was blocked because of increased security, but said Boston looked ready to host a big party without any worries about safety.

She also wasn’t thinking about the bombing suspects’ alleged original target. "I’m thinking of independence and what our country is about," Lawrie said.

Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart said the tight security reminded him of what it was like during the city’s first July Fourth celebration following the Sept. 11 attacks. He said before then, the thought of having bomb-sniffing dogs at the Esplanade was odd.

"The core of terrorism is psychological. I think this is a perfect time to come together as Bostonians," he said. "Events are a good way to move on from events like what happened."

East Boston resident Christy Scott, who watched the Boston Marathon from the halfway point, gathered with her family today to watch the concert rehearsal. The 41-year-old wore a bracelet that said "Boston Strong," the slogan that since the April 15 attack has come to represent the city’s refusal to give in to the fear of terrorism.

"Not about to change our plans and traditions," she said. "We’re just not going to live in fear."

Boston University chemistry professor Sean Elliott also brought relatives to the area.

"I’m not nervous," the 41-year-old said. "I am sure that the human spirit will thrive. I’m sure it will be a great festival like it is every year."

Authorities have said the concert and fireworks display usually attracts 500,000 to 600,000 spectators, but 33-year-old cab driver Saidon Mayugi suggested some people would be hesitant about being out in a big crowd.

"Some people, their minds are still on it," Mayugi said.

Local, state and federal authorities coordinated on a security plan that includes a greater law-enforcement presence. That means more uniformed and undercover officers, along with precautions that include bag checks and increased live video surveillance along the Charles River that authorities will monitor from a nearby command center. Authorities also have set up a text-a-tip line for the public to report any suspicious activity.

Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis said the public will see more officers both downtown and in outlying neighborhoods. He said the city even graduated a class of 55 police recruits early so they could assist with security.

State police Col. Timothy Alben said today that authorities haven’t received any threats against the event by the river, and he encouraged the public to come out to a show that his own family will be attending.

So will Gov. Deval Patrick.

"I’m looking forward to it," Patrick said today. "I think it’ll be a great day."

Associated Press writer Bob Salsberg in Boston contributed to this story.