What’s Changed In Borderland Due To Sept. 11 Attacks

Things have certainly changed across America since the 9/11 attacks 10 years ago.

Most notably – and visibly – with heightened security at airports and international ports of entry.

Now that Osama Bin Laden is dead, some people have mixed feelings about security in our country.

Some say more is needed while others argue that since the threat is gone less is the way to go.

Long lines at our international bridges are nothing new since 9/11.

“The lines are too long in a vehicle, it’s about three hours,” said one border crosser.

Pedestrian lines on some days are up to four hours.

At the El Paso International Airport, a whole new federal agency was formed under homeland security to develop strict guidelines.

TSA posters can be seen everywhere reminding people what to pack.

Not only must every bag be scanned, passengers are too.

There also are armed U.S. Marshals on various flights.

Some believe the strict new rules could get even tougher.

“I don’t think we should let our guard down, I think we should continue watching out and I think somebody’s going to try to get us now for what we did to Osama,” said this man.

Another big difference, loved ones have to say goodbye before going up to the gates.

“I’d rather have that than being dead,” he said.

Changes this other man said he’s gotten used to.

“You just have to plan for it, it’s not that big of a deal,” he said.

Still, daily border crossers seem to endure the worst of it.

“You can’t bring stuff over here because they ask you for more, what are you taking, what are you bringing, it’s way way different. It hurts the economy,” he said.

El Paso airport officials say no security changes have been put in effect.

But currently there’s a worldwide travel alert by the U.S. department of state for U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad.