Most theme park operators said they will maintain a watchful eye this Independence Day -- the first since Sept. 11 -- although most added that changes made to date are sufficient and few, if any, new measures will be taken for the specific holiday.
"We've been operating at a heightened state of security since Sept. 11, and that continues today," said Ray Gomez, spokesman for the Walt Disney Co.'s
Disneyland theme park in southern California.
Gomez and other park operators said holidays like July 4 are typically among their busiest days, but that parks are often equally full on summer weekends when children are out of school.
Visitors who haven't been to Disneyland in more than a year will discover a number of changes on their next visit, including bag searches when they enter the park and more security personnel inside.
Less noticeable but equally significant, Disneyland employees must also have their bags checked when they come to work and display their company identification at all times. Delivery vehicles also face more restrictions, and certain areas are off limits when the park is closed.
Gomez said Disneyland has no plans for added security on July 4, but that it remains in contact with local and national law enforcement officials and emergency response personnel.
"We feel what we have in place is sufficient at this point," he said. "We haven't received any warnings or information from law enforcement about any specific or credible threats."
