Port of Portland to upgrade marine terminal security systems

The Oregon port plans to use grant funding to renew outdated closed circuit television cameras and systems, as well as overhaul access control systems at terminal gates.    Oregon’s Port of Portland plans to use a $1.25 million grant from the U.S. government to upgrade marine terminal security systems, the port revealed Sept. 21.
   Specifically, the funding will go toward renewing outdated closed circuit television cameras and systems, as well as overhauling access control systems at terminal gates, the port said.
   The received funding goes toward rebuilding key components of security systems at marine Terminals 4 and 6.
   Terminal 4, located on the Willamette River facilitates auto imports and shipping of mineral bulks. The multi-use Terminal 6, on the Columbia River, facilitates auto imports and exports, and houses container facilities with five berths and eight rail tracks.
   The FY 2017 Port Security Grant Program, funded at $100 million, directly supports maritime transportation infrastructure security activities. On Sept. 1, Portland was announced as one of 33 U.S. ports to receive grant funds, which are awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
   The port security grant program is part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the U.S. government to strengthen the nation’s critical infrastructure against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks.
   “We greatly appreciate this support from FEMA, allowing us to upgrade our marine security systems to protect these vital business assets for our community,” Port of Portland CEO Vince Granato said in a statement.