The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has given the Port of Long Beach more than $2.6 million to secure key infrastructure and maintain the safe passage of goods.
The Port of Long Beach will reportedly use the funds to boost cybersecurity, improve drone detection capabilities, and upgrade network infrastructure that supports the efficient movement of goods.
The Department of Homeland Security also granted $4.2 million to six terminals at the Port of Long Beach, the Long Beach Police Department’s Port Police Division, and the Long Beach Fire Department.
Long Beach Mayor, Rex Richardson, said: “These investments are vital in safeguarding our port’s operations and ensuring the secure movement of trade.”
Port of Long Beach CEO, Mario Cordero, stated: “We thank the Department of Homeland Security for driving innovative security practices and heightening the port’s ability to protect the people and the infrastructure responsible for moving cargo valued at more than $200 billion annually.”
Long Beach Harbor Commission President, Bonnie Lowenthal, said: “This grant will elevate our ability to protect the harbor with state-of-the-art technology and secure the livelihoods of more than 2.6 million people whose jobs depend on Port operations. We are grateful for this federal funding to strengthen this critical gateway for transpacific trade.”
Recently, demand for holiday-related items pushed the Port of Long Beach to its busiest September and quarter on record.