AMHS Incorporates National
Maritime Security Plan
Increases In Port, Harbor
& Vessel Security Will be Noticeable
June 26, 2004
Saturday
Juneau, Alaska - The Alaska Marine
Highway System (AMHS) is responding to new federal regulations
requiring increased port, harbor and vessel security. U.S. Department
of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge announced Monday that
some 3,200 port facilities, 9,500 vessels and 40 off-shore oil
and natural gas rigs must comply with new requirements under
the Maritime Transportation Security Act and the International
Ship and Port Facility Security Code by the July 1, 2004 deadline.
The Marine Highway's
vessels Mantanuska and Columbia - Ketchikan, Alaska
File photo by Carl Thompson ©2004
AMHS General Manager John Falvery says security increases will
be noticeable, but not inconvenient. "Ticket holders will
notice new procedures and equipment, but should be able to go
about their usual business as they travel," said Falvery.
Passenger, vehicle and cargo screening is another requirement
under the national security plan. "Screening is part of
the program and we're training our security officers to be thorough
and efficient, yet considerate and respectful of people's privacy,"
he added.
Many security measures will
be physical improvement such as better lighting in terminals
and parking lots, closed circuit cameras on car decks and checking
in firearms. "Our intention is not to hassle anyone, but
rather to increase the safety of our passengers, crew and assets,"
said Nona Wilson, Alaska DOT's Public Information Officer. "The
alternative is a federal shutdown of our entire system, which
would be disastrous for many communities and AMHS. In a broader
sense, I think many people using our system will feel more comfortable
knowing that the Marine Highway has enhanced its security structure
to protect their safety."
The Marine Highway's fleet
of nine vessels currently serves 34 ports of call in Southwest
and Southeast Alaska including ports of call in Ketchikan, Metlakatla,
Sitka and Juneau. Ports of calls also include Bellingham, Washington
and Prince Rupert, Canada. A tenth ship, the Fast Vehicle Ferry
Chenega, is expected to begin service in Prince William Sound
next spring.
Source of News:
Alaska Department of Transportation
& Public Facilities
Web Site
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