The federal money was made available from funds allocated by Congress for the new Transportation Security Administration (TSA), whose responsibility is security for the nation's transportation systems, including airport and port security.

 “The horrific events of September 11th have led all of America to a heightened state of alert, even here in Rhode Island,” said Congressman Langevin.  “Thanks to this federal award, the City of Providence will have additional resources to secure its port from outside threats, while sustaining the normal operation of a critical economic engine for the state.”

 “As a nation, we are all concerned with ensuring that the tragedy of September 11th never happens again,” said Congressman Kennedy.  “This award helps safeguard the Port of Providence while reinforcing the City of Providence’s ability to combat potential threats.”

 According to DOT, grant awards were based on the need for security assessments and enhancements as determined by the Under-Secretary of the Transportation Security Administration, the Administrator of the Maritime Administration, and the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.  Preference was given to critical seaports and ports that had already begun security enhancement through some demonstrated action.

 The Rhode Island award is part of a $92.3 million package of port security grants to critical national seaports to finance enhancements to facility and operational security.  ProvPort's application was one of 850 filed for the federal funds, which were reviewed by officials from the TSA, Coast Guard and Maritime Administration. 

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