GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $296,983 FOR SCREENING SYSTEM FOR PASSENGER SHIP FACILITIES STATEWIDE

For Immediate Release: July 14, 2008

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $296,983 for the construction of a non-invasive, passenger screening system capable of detecting improvised explosive devices at passenger ship facilities statewide.

The radiation-free imaging, passenger screening system will be installed at Honolulu, Kahului, Hilo and Nāwiliwili harbors, and relay information to the Honolulu Harbor Surveillance Command Information System, State Law Enforcement Coalition at the State Capitol, and State Civil Defense. The system will be able to detect metallic and non-metallic weapons without physical pat-downs by security screeners.

“Port security is a top priority for our state and nation,” said Governor Lingle. “This system will strengthen security at Hawai‘i’s passenger ports, enhance our ability to respond to threats, and help us to save lives and protect property.”

These funds represent the state’s matching share of a federal grant of $890,947, for total construction costs of $1,187,930.

Construction is scheduled to begin in November 2008 and be completed by December 2009.

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For more information, contact:

Brennon Morioka
Director, Dept. of Transportation
Phone: (808) 587-2150

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043