As part of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Infrastructure Protection Activities the Port Security Grant Program (PSGP) is an important component of a coordinated, national effort to strengthen the security of America's critical infrastructure.
Under the Patrick-Murray administration the Seaport Advisory Council has successfully submitted 3 rounds of PSGP applications. Focusing on the deep water ports of the Commonwealth, these grants will benefit the ports of Fall River, Gloucester, New Bedford and Salem.
Under the FY 2007 Port Security Grant Program the Ports of Gloucester and Salem will receive federal funding in the amount of $705,999 for a Patrol Boat, port-wide camera surveillance and TWIC card readers.
Under the FY 2007 Port Security Grant Program the Ports of New Bedford/Fairhaven and Fall River will receive federal funding in the amount of $909,393 for 2 Boston Whalers, port-wide camera surveillance and Dive Equipment for New Bedford's Port Security Team.
Under the FY 2008 Port Security Grant Program the Ports of New Bedford/Fairhaven and Fall River will receive federal funding in the amount of $948,177 for FSO Training, TWIC card readers and surveillance cameras for the Braga Bridge.
Under the FY 2009 Port Security Grant Program the Port of New Bedford/Fairhaven will receive federal funding in the amount of $344,784 for Voyager II FLIRS, engines, a boat trailer and the Massachusetts Environmental Police, from this region, will attend the Boat Operators Anti-terrorism Training Course.
Under the FY 2009 Port Security Grant Program the Port of Fall River will receive federal funding in the amount of $33,255 for a boat trailer, VHF radios and the Massachusetts Environmental Police, from this region, will attend the Boat Operators Anti-terrorism Training Course.
The Seaport Council will contribute the required 25% match of $980,536 to these awards to bring the total funding allocated to port security and stabilization to just under $4million.
The Seaport Advisory Council is continuing to work with the cities, towns, local law enforcement and our state partners in the maritime community; to develop and strengthen their operations and programs. Concurrently, the council continues to administer the PSGP draw downs to assure that the funding is completed in a timely and efficient manner. As always, the council is willing to help with and support our local and regional partners in developing applications to federal and other agencies for the purpose of port security and safety.
