US Senators Barbara Mikulski and Benjamin Cardin have announced significant federal investments in Maryland's transit and port security following the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announcement of awards for state infrastructure grants.
Maryland has received more than US$6.4 million for port security in Baltimore. An additional $38 million has been awarded to the National Capital Region, which includes Montgomery and Prince George's Counties, for transit security.
Senator Mikulski is a member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee. Senator Cardin is Chairman of the Judiciary, Terrorism and Homeland Security Subcommittee and a member of the Budget Committee.
"Protecting America's security begins at home and these grants strengthen our ability to protect our neighbourhoods, our economic livelihood and our nation's borders," said Senator Cardin. "I am proud of the role Maryland, and the entire National Capital Region, has as a national and international hub for government, business, and tourism. But that spotlight inherently brings an increased risk that makes federal investments like these much more critical."
The Port Security Grant Programme (PSGP) provides funding to finance security enhancements at critical national seaports, including plans, exercises and equipment to prevent, protect, respond to and recover from potential attacks to our nation's ports.
Approximately 11 million containers come into the United States each year, including 19,000 containers daily.
The Transit Security Grant Programme (TSGP) provides funding to urban areas to strengthen critical infrastructure against risk of potential attack. Funds support operators of intercity bus and rail systems for training, planning, operations and equipment.
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