Thomas L. Gallagher | Oct 01, 2009 2:18PM EDT
Port Manatee on Sept. 30 received a federal grant of $998,542 through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act to pay for security upgrades.
The port will use the money to purchase energy-efficient hybrid security vehicles and to enhance port security surveillance technology.
"This grant improves the port's ability to secure the assets and personnel of Port Manatee and its customers. It reaffirms our commitment to be a leader in seaport security," said David McDonald, executive director of the port.
The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act provides stimulus money to the U.S. economy and includes measures to modernize the nation's infrastructure and enhance energy independence.
At the entrance to Tampa Bay, Port Manatee ranks among Florida's largest and fastest growing deepwater seaports.
Contact Thomas L. Gallagher at tgallagher@joc.com.