Boston Marathon A Year After Bombing Massive Security In Place

Boston might be the safest place in America on Monday, Patrick said Sunday on the CBS news program "Face the Nation."

This year's race begins Monday, winding 26.2 miles through surburban streets before ending in Boston.

Officials are striking a balance between more security and maintaining the city's festive spirit, Patrick said. He would not specify the steps being taken to boost security, but said there will be a "considerably more police presence."

Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, told ABC's "This Week" on Sunday that cameras, police, police dogs and bomb detecting equipment will make Boston "well-fortified."

McCaul said he's concerned about the possibility of a copycat attack.

The April 15, 2013, bombing and its aftermath left four people dead and more than 260 injured. Many victims lost limbs when two explosive-laden pressure cookers ignited seconds apart near the finish line.

Two brothers were pegged as suspects in the blast. Tamerlan Tsarnaev died later in a police shootout. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was apprehended days later and faces numerous charges in what is labeled a domestic terror incident.

Some of the security measures in place for Monday's 118th running of the Boston Marathon:

— More than 3,500 police officers — double the usual number — will be out along the 26.2-mile course, including undercover officers with special training.

— At least 100 strategically positioned video cameras will monitor the crowds.

— Spectators are asked to carry their belongings in clear plastic bags instead of backpacks.

— Spectators who do bring backpacks will be subject to a search.

— Coolers, quilts and other bulky items are discouraged.

— Security will be especially tight close to the finish line.

— More than 50 observation points will be set up near the finish line to monitor the crowd.

— Unregistered runners known as bandits won’t be allowed to participate.