i'm not applying to suny (not this year, at least) but i live in nyc and have been to manhattan over 10 times since september 11th. i've been in the suny area since then, and it's the same as usual... busy, crowded, disgusting midtown. i'd be more wary of the pickpockets in the area than of any terrorism, so i hope the recent events do not deter you.
good luck with your application!