The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency Port Security Grant Program has awarded just over $1.9 million in federal grant funding to Port Canaveral. The money will go towards several projects at the port to protect its critical infrastructure from terrorism and other security threats.
The Canaveral Port Authority will receive $1,357,020 in federal funding for two projects to help bolster safety and security. It will be supplemented by a 25 percent CPA cost share match to improve the port’s risk prevention programs, threat mitigation efforts, and security response service capabilities.
“Safety and security is a primary mission for Port Canaveral, and these awards signal great confidence in our Port from our Federal partners,” said Port CEO Capt. John Murray. “We have a critical requirement to protect and maintain our infrastructure and operations. Grants like these are important funding to help us employ new resources and latest technologies to augment our security measures with an enhanced ability to detect and respond to threats.”
MORE: Royal Caribbean And Celebrity Drop Vaccine Requirement on Most Voyages
Security Enhancement Projects
The Cybersecurity Vulnerability Reduction Project was awarded just over $884,000 to support a $1.18 million project to elevate and enhance Port Canaveral’s cybersecurity.
The Canaveral Port Authority also received $472,500 to allow it to purchase a new Security Rapid Response Boat. The vessel will be a 33-foot “Life Proof” boat operated by Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, equipped with up-to-date features and technology to respond to and support current and future waterside security needs at Port Canaveral.
The Canaveral Pilots Association was awarded just over $584,000 to purchase a new response boat with high-tech modern communication and sounding equipment to assist with emergencies and hurricane recovery operations at the port. Supplemented by a 50 percent cost match share by the Canaveral Pilots, the grant funding will also support engine repower and technology upgrades to two existing pilot boats.
Federal Funding
Port Canaveral was one of over 30 U.S. ports awarded FY 2022 federal funding from FEMA’s $100 million Port Security Grant Program.
The program’s priority is to protect critical port infrastructure, enhance maritime domain awareness, improve port-wide maritime security risk management, and maintain or re-establish maritime security mitigation protocols.
READ NEXT: Which Cruise Lines Are Allowing Unvaccinated Guests to Sail?
The post Port Canaveral to Receive $1.9 Million For Security Upgrades appeared first on Cruise Radio – Daily Updates On The Cruise Industry.
