Galveston, Texas (Sept. 15, 2017) - The Port of Galveston is pleased to announce that it has received a $1 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  The grant was awarded through the 2017 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP), administered by FEMA, to support improvements in port security and enhance maritime awareness. 

The award will be used to fund two projects.  The first project expands the Port’s fiber infrastructure and video surveillance systems, supports cyber security efforts and provides funds to assist with system maintenance.   The second project will replace the canopy located at the security gate serving the Port’s West End terminals.

The total budget for both projects is $1,121,435.  The funding is to be matched by the Port with a 25 percent cost share of $280,359.  “We’re honored by the confidence FEMA has shown in the Port of Galveston with this award. It will help us continue our commitment to enhancing the security of the Port and ensuring the safe movement of passengers and cargo through the Port of Galveston complex,” said Peter Simons, Interim Port Director.

The PSGP is one of the Department of Homeland Security's grant programs that directly supports maritime transportation infrastructure security activities. PSGP is one tool in the comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the Administration to strengthen the Nation’s critical infrastructure against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks. 

                                                                                                                                      About the Port of Galveston

The Port of Galveston is the region’s gateway to the Gulf for cruise ships and international trade. Located at the entrance to Galveston Bay, the Port leases and maintains facilities on both Galveston Island and Pelican Island. The Galveston Island operations are a diversified mix of cargo including roll on-roll-off cargo, dry bulk, export grain, refrigerated fruit, general cargo, and project cargo. In addition, the Port handles over 1.7 million cruise passengers annually. The Port’s Pelican Island facilities comprise a combination of undeveloped property, an active ship and rig repair facility, and liquid bulk operations. The Port is a self-supporting enterprise utility with operating revenues of approximately $34 million. It does not rely on tax dollars for operations.

                                                                                                                                                           ###

###