USA - Security upgrade for Port Manatee

Port Manatee in Florida is benefiting from a US$1.8 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for three security-related projects.

The South Gate will be modernized to improve security and efficiency, while cargo and vehicle data processing systems will be adopted.

The second project involves upgrading the equipment of the Port Security Emergency Communication Center, which coordinates activities in an emergency.

The third project is to invest in geographic information systems (GIS) software to manage traffic patterns and infrastructure development.

Port Manatee, located at the entrance to Tampa Bay, is the closest US deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal. It handles bulk and breakbulk cargo, containers, general cargo, heavy lift items and project cargo.