AAPA Reports Port Delays

Following yesterday's alleged terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, individual port authorities around the U.S. activated heightened security procedures, working with the U.S. Coast Guard and other appropriate Federal agencies to ensure the safety and security of America's seaports. The security procedures range from escorts of vessels into and out of ports, to vehicle and ID checks. The only U.S. port that remains closed is the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. According to a Port Authority official, the Coast Guard and port officials were to meet this afternoon. Following a security risk assessment, and after they received all of the information from local, State and Federal agencies, they were to make a decision about when to open. The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), which represents port authorities across the Western Hemisphere, heard from many of its members during the past two days. Individuals expressed their sadness and concern, and offered their assistance to Port Authority of New York and New Jersey staff members, who were housed in the World Trade Center in New York City. According to AAPA president Kurt J. Nagle, "Our thoughts and prayers are with our friends and colleagues at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. We continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones and for those who have not yet been accounted for. When we have more information, AAPA will let its members know what they can do to help the Port Authority and its employees." The American Association of Port Authorities was founded in 1912 and today represents more than 150 public port authorities in the United States, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, the Association represents over 300 sustaining and associate members, firms and individuals with an interest in the seaports of the Western Hemisphere. AAPA port members are public entities mandated by law to serve public purposes. Port authorities facilitate waterborne commerce and contribute to local, regional and national economic growth.