Port to begin security upgrades

The Port Authority of Guam will now be able to move forward with nearly $3 Million worth of security upgrades following last night’s approval of the construction contract by the Public Utilities Commission.

The contract has been awarded to Maeda Pacific and is for a total of $2,933,000. The Port Security Enhancements Project will include the construction of the Maritime and Port Security Operations Center and the command and control integration of all security and communications systems. The system integration component includes the installation, programming and maintenance of multiple systems such as security surveillance system (CCTV), security access control, CATV, radio communications and voice and data systems.

This entire project is 100% federally funded from multiple grants awarded to the Port from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through the Federal Emergency and Management Agency’s Port Security Grant Program.

“This is a critical multiple component project that includes the construction of our Maritime and Port Security Operations Center and also will integrate all of our security and communications systems to streamline and improve our response to any situation,” said Port General Manager Mary C. Torres. “This project further enhances our Maritime Security capabilities as well as brings us in line with the National Preparedness Goal and the 2003 Guam Homeland Security Strategy.”

Earlier this year the Port conducted the procurement for this project and it was determined that Maeda Pacific submitted the lowest responsive and responsible bid. The Board of Directors approved the award and then the Port submitted the request to the PUC for review and approval. The PUC held a meeting last night and approved the contract. According to Guam law, any Port contract that exceeds $1,00,000 requires prior PUC approval.

Now that the approval has been obtained, the Port’s legal counsel will finalize the contract with Maeda Pacific. Once the contract is signed, the Port will issue a Notice to Proceed. The project is anticipated to last at least 12 months.

Source: Port Authority of Guam.