Port of Baltimore receives Top U.S. Coast Guard Security Rating

 The state-owned, public marine terminals of the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore received a top security rating for the 13th consecutive year by the U.S. Coast Guard as part of an annual inspection of facilities. The assessment reviewed security procedures and protocols at the six public marine terminals: Dundalk, Seagirt, North Locust Point, South Locust Point (including the cruise passenger terminal), Fairfield and Masonville.

“The Port of Baltimore’s focus on security gives customers and our partners great confidence in our ability to protect their assets and maintain a safe and reliable supply chain serving Maryland and the nation,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Greg Slater. “The Port is constantly improving and evolving its security operations, and achieving this top rating for 13 consecutive years reflects that commitment.”

Each year U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland conducts an inspection to ensure compliance of federal security regulations. The visual inspection includes a review of access control procedures and makes certain physical security fixtures, such as high-mast lighting and fencing, are up to federal security standards. The inspection also focuses on gate and fence line conditions, signage, and other physical security equipment. 

In recent years, the MDOT Maryland Port Administration (MDOT MPA), which oversees the Port’s public marine terminals, has implemented security enhancements including cyber security initiatives, closed circuit television, and stronger access control technologies.

“I congratulate our entire MDOT Maryland Port Administration security team, led by our Director of Security David Espie,” said MDOT MPA Executive Director William P. Doyle. “Along with the great work of our team, we are also very appreciative of the outstanding partnerships we have with Customs and Border Protection, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, Coast Guard, Allied Universal, and other key security partners.  They all play huge roles in making the Port of Baltimore one of the safest ports in the nation.”

The Port of Baltimore generates about 15,300 direct jobs, with nearly 140,000 jobs overall linked to Port activities. The Port ranks first among the nation’s ports for volume of autos and light trucks, roll on/roll off heavy farm and construction machinery, and imported gypsum. It ranks 11th among major U.S. ports for cargo handled and ninth for total cargo value.