The Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore has earned a top U.S. Coast Guard security assessment for the 16th consecutive year.

According to a press release, the Coast Guard’s inspection covered six state-owned, public marine terminals, including Dundalk, Seagirt, North Locust Point, South Locust Point (including the cruise passenger terminal), Fairfield and Masonville, reviewing all security protocols and procedures.

“A secure and safe Port of Baltimore is essential to protect workers and grow our State’s economy,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Congratulations to MPA Executive Director Jonathan Daniels and his team for continuing our tradition of excellence.”

In recent years, the Maryland Port Administration (MPA) has strengthened security at the Port’s public terminals with upgrades like high-mast lighting, new fencing, reinforced gates and other security measures. Additionally, the MPA has enhanced cybersecurity and access control, along with the use of closed-circuit cameras.

The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland conducts an annual inspection to ensure the Port meets federal security regulations. This includes a review of the MPA’s security plan and cybersecurity efforts.

“Securing one of the busiest ports in the nation is no small task and takes a full team effort,” said MPA Executive Director Daniels.  “I want to recognize the great work of our MPA security, operations, and information technology departments, as well as the yeoman’s work of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police and Allied Universal to make the Port of Baltimore one of the safest and most secure ports in the U.S.”