DOT Grants Program Will Provide Port Security Funding

U.S. ports will soon begin applying for $93.3 million in funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to enhance seaport security. The new Port Security Grants program will be administered by the Maritime Association (MARAD) and the U.S. Coast Guard on behalf of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). “We’re very pleased that Congress recognized the tremendous need for Federal help at U.S. seaports and appropriated emergency funding for security enhancements,” said Kurt J. Nagle, president of the American Association of Port Authorities. “We commend DOT’s extraordinary efforts to get this grant program up and running quickly.” “While the $93.3 million is a good initial investment, we anticipate that much more will be needed to protect America’s ports from terrorism and other Federal crimes. Seaports are vital to the nation’s economic growth and vitality. We hope that Congress will provide significant additional funding for grants during the upcoming appropriations process,” Nagle added. Ports need to submit grant applications electronically through MARAD’s web site,