Port of Everett seeks $2 million security boost

By Mike Benbow

Herald Writer

Port of Everett officials are seeking $2 million in federal funds to install sophisticated security measures on the waterfront that would help thwart terrorists while keeping goods moving.

If approved, the money would buy:

A microwave intruder detector.

A system for issuing official credentials.

More secure gates.

Camera surveillance.

Better lighting.

More security officers.

The request, outlined by port officials Friday to U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Wash., a former port employee, is part of a joint request with Seattle and Tacoma for $15 million to beef up waterfront security in the Puget Sound area.

Seattle would use some of the money to secure its cruise ship terminals, and Tacoma would add fencing, surveillance cameras and access controls at its terminals.

"The ports connect the world to the United States," Everett port director John Mohr said. "If we have a terrorist attack on any of our seaports, the response will be to shut down all the seaports until they’re deemed OK to go forward. The lasting effects are almost as bad as the initial effects."

Mohr said he wants to increase security before an incident occurs. He also said area ports want to determine which measures will be most effective here rather than receive a "one size fits all" mandate from the federal government.

Larsen, who once worked at the port in economic development, said he understood the need for "putting up fences and making sure everyone has the appropriate ID."

"But I also think we need to be using technology to keep freight moving," he said.

He added that he didn’t want heightened security to become a trade barrier by adding extra expense and time to the movement of goods.

The state’s entire congressional delegation has endorsed the grant, which will be considered by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Larsen noted in a letter to Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta that state is highly trade dependent. "The Puget Sound region is home to many critical military facilities, a large and growing cruise industry and the nation’s largest ferry system," he added in his request for "a significant portion" of the nation’s port security funds.

Mohr noted the port was ready to do its parts to enhance security, but needed a little help.

"We definitely need the support of the federal government," he said.

You can call Herald Writer Mike Benbow at 425-339-3459 or send e-mail to benbow@heraldnet.com.