Residents have sued the New York Police Department, the city and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which runs the trade centre.
In Manhattan state Supreme Court today, members of the World Trade Centre Neighbourhood Alliance asked Judge Margaret Chan to stop the plans for guard booths, gates, fencing and checkpoints.
The judge didn't rule and said she'll first visit the site.
Longtime resident Mary Perillo says the neighbourhood has become far more residential since 9/11. She says the security plan isolates residents while accommodating tourists. The city says the security is necessary.