With President's Visit Comes Stepped Up Security

CATONSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- President Obama visits Baltimore County, delivering a landmark speech on Islam.

Meghan McCorkell with a closer look at security surrounding President Obama's visit.

Anticipation grows as neighbors in a small Catonsville community await a VIP guest.

"I walked down here and I'm hoping to catch a glimpse," one woman said.

A glimpse at President Barack Obama.

"So exciting. I know it's not very professional looking," Darby McKaine said.

McKaine made a sign to welcome the commander-in-chief to her neighborhood.

"I'm a big fan of President Obama. It's exciting. It feels like a once in a lifetime experience to have him come to Catonsville, where I've been a lifelong resident," she said.

Just after 11 a.m. Wednesday, the moment had arrived.

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It happened in seconds, but some say they'll remember it for a lifetime.

"Electrifying. Just absolutely awesome," said one woman.

"Never saw it before. It was something to see," another woman said.

And with the president's visit, comes stepped up security throughout the Catonsville community.

Secret Service and Baltimore County police surrounded the mosque. Traffic was restricted throughout the area.

Some say it's a small price to pay.

"Monumental moment. I may never get the chance to see a motorcade like that with President Obama come through this area again," one man said.

And just as fast, the president headed back out of town.

Mr. Obama left the area just after 2 p.m.