Grand Central's Main Concourse closed to public due to reports of protests
NEW YORK – Grand Central Terminal's Main Concourse has been closed to the public in response to reports of planned protests.
CBS New York's Naveen Dhaliwal reports MTA Police got word that a pro-Palestinian protest was scheduled to take place by the clock in the middle of the Main Concourse at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.
In response to the reports, police have surrounded the concourse with barricades. There is a heavy police presence from multiple agencies, including New York State Police and MTA Police.
Trains appear to be running normally.
Riders are being directed to use alternate entrances.
Protesters gather outside Grand Central
Because of the barricades, protesters instead gathered outside Grand Central Terminal.
From Chopper 2, a group of what appeared to be a couple hundred people could be seen in Pershing Square on the south side of East 42nd Street. Some were carrying signs and the Palestinian flag. Individuals appeared to be giving speeches.
It has been a peaceful scene so far.
At one point Thursday afternoon, a smaller group of pro-Israeli protesters could be seen waving flags across the street.
There is an additional police presence outside the building.
Stay with CBS2 News and CBSNewYork.com for the latest on this developing story.
