Chicago Area Security On Alert In Wake Of Boston Bombings

UPDATED: 4/16/2013 1:45 p.m.

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Local security agencies say the are monitoring the investigation into the Boston Marathon terror bombings and stepping up security as needed around Chicago.

At both Union and Ogilvie train stations, Metra is asking riders to report suspicious activity, and conductors are keeping a close eye on passengers and packages.

Sources tell CBS 2 that Chicago police have been ordered to conduct security checks at several high-profile buildings downtown.

Bomb-sniffing dogs and security officers have been deployed to Union station. Amtrak is telling customers to be extra careful not to leave their bags unattended and to report to police or Amtrak any unattended bags near the trains, vehicles or the station.

Some passengers appreciated the extra precautions but wondered if authorities could stop an attack.

"They can boost security all they wan, but people are very smart," said Jan Jankowski. "When they want to accomplish something, they'll find a way to do it."

Another Metra rider, Mary Jo Rudney, agreed, saying, "I expected to see some security out here. Anybody is susceptible at any time. Things are going to happen. If something is going to happen, they're going to do it regardless."

Chicago Police also are raising security at large gatherings and games.

O'Hare and Midway airports continue to maintain a high level of vigilance and are working with local and federal goverments, Department of Aviation spokesman Greg Cunnigham said.

Meantime, Mayor Rahm Emanuel met with his public safety team on Tuesday to make sure the city remains vigilant in the wake of the bombings in Boston.

The mayor met with Police Supt. Garry McCarthy, First Deputy Supt. Al Wysinger, Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago, Emergency Management Director Gary Schenkel, and Chief of Staff Lisa Schrader to discuss the city's public safety plans.

Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communication sought to reassure residents that authorities are being vigilant here.

"We are closely monitoring events as they unfold in Boston and the City of Chicago's public safety departments are actively communicating with our law enforcement partners both locally and throughout the country. At this time, we are not aware of any additional threats," OEMC said in a written statement.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn said his administration also is on top of potential threats.

"I have directed all of the state's public safety agencies – including the Illinois State Police, Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Department of Military Affairs and Office of the State Fire Marshal – to stand ready to assist and remain vigilant in responding to and reporting suspicious activity. As always, the people of Illinois should be aware of activities around them and report anything suspicious to local law enforcement officials," he said.