"These substantial federal grants to increase security at Maine ports are of vital importance in safeguarding our state and our nation from the threat of terrorist acts," said Collins. "The Port of Portland handles more tonnage annually than any other port in New England, and our research demonstrates that America's ports represent an area in which we are vulnerable to terrorist attack."
The Port of Portland will receive $1,296,000 to fund the purchase and installation of surveillance equipment and access control at three marine terminals in Portland. The funding will also be used to upgrade security, and for the screening of passengers and vehicles before boarding the Scotia Prince. The Port of Portland can also use the funds for the purchase of photo badges, handheld wands and radios for its staff.
The Maine Port Authority, which oversees marine terminals in Bar Harbor and Searsport, will receive a grant for $632,880 to improve security in both locations. $258,480 of the funding will be directed toward the purchase of metal detectors to screen passengers boarding the high-speed Cat to Nova Scotia. The balance of the money will be used in Searsport to implement a single-entry point system.