U.S. Dot Releases $148 Million For Port, Intercity Bus, And Cargo Security Programs
The U.S. Department of Transportation has targed $148 million in new transportation security grants from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The grants will include $105 million for Port Security, $15 million for Intercity Bus Security, and $28 million for Operation Safe Commerce’s pilot program for port security.
The Port Security Grants program includes grants for security assessments and strategies for mitigating vulnerabilities and for enhancing cargo and passenger security and access control.
More than $92 million in Port Security Grants has been distributed to 51 U.S. ports since June 2002.
A selection board composed of representatives from the TSA, U.S. Coast Guard and Maritime Administration (MARAD) will judge Port Security Grant applications.
Intercity Bus Security Grants will enhance security for intercity bus operations by focusing on protecting the driver; monitoring and communicating with over-the-road buses; implementing and operating passenger and baggage screening programs; assessing critical security needs and vulnerabilities; and training transportation personnel to recognize and respond to criminal attacks and terrorist threats, as well as in evacuation procedures.
Preference will be given to proposals that address those priorities, although other proposals will be considered. Applications may be submitted by private and public operators of over-the-road buses, bus associations and other associations related to the intercity bus industry.
TSA is coordinating the Intercity Bus Security Grants Program with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Federal Transit Administration.
