News Release
FOR RELEASE - September 23, 2009
Contact: Aaron Ellis, aellis@aapa-ports.org
703-684-5700

American Association of Port Authorities
Phone: (202) 792-4033
www.aapa-ports.org

DHS Releases $150M In Recovery Act Funds For Port Security

AAPA Chief Says Grants Will Aid Terrorism Prevention, Economy, Jobs

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano today announced the release of $150 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds for port security, stating that the stimulus grants "will enhance the resiliency of our critical infrastructure and improve our emergency response capabilities by supporting risk-based initiatives integral to our national security."

American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) President and Chief Executive Officer Kurt Nagle noted that the stimulus grant funds will further enhance the ability of America's seaports to protect their critical infrastructure while creating jobs and stimulating the economy at a time when the nation needs it most.

"As our lifeline to world trade and part of our nation's ‘water borders,' seaports must be secure," said Mr. Nagle.  "These grants help protect America's ports as well as provide jobs and aid our economic recovery." 

Mr. Nagle added, "These grants help secure assets vital to our nation's long-term prosperity."

Sec. Napolitano made the DHS announcement today at an event at Baltimore's Inner Harbor, where she was accompanied by Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley, Congressman "Dutch" Ruppersberger (D-MD) and Port of Baltimore Executive Director Jim White.

Click here for the FEMA grants program information bulletin listing the FY 2009 ARRA Port Security Grant Program final allocations.