"Security Beefed Up In Waters Around Logan Airport"

Wednesday, June 18, 2003

Security Beefed Up In Waters Around Logan Airport 
Buoys Installed Around Airport To Warn Boaters Away
The Associated Press


BOSTON -- The Massachusetts Port Authority began installing a ring of buoys
around Logan International Airport Wednesday to delineate the 250-foot
security zone approved by the Legislature last year. 

Only authorized law enforcement and military vessels will be allowed within
the security zone. Commercial fishermen who wish to enter the area will have
to receive permission from the airport. 

Anyone who enters the zone without authorization will be subject to
prosecution and added to a database of offenders compiled by the state
police. 
 
The security zone is one of several measures adopted by Logan since the
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when hijackers used two planes from
Boston to destroy New York's World Trade Center. The airport is testing
motion-detection technology that would use special cameras to monitor the
perimeter and notify airport personnel about any activity within the
250-foot zone. 

The security zone around Logan's nearly 7 miles of coastline will be
demarcated with 29 buoys of varying sizes. 

"These buoys will provide a strong visual reminder to boaters to stay clear
of Logan's airfield and will assist our state police in enforcing the
security zone," Massport Chief Executive Officer Craig Coy said in a
statement. "This is one more step we can take to ensure the safety of the
traveling public." 

Under state legislation passed last year, the clammers who traditionally
work the flats around Logan will continue to have access, but must notify
airport officials when they are going to be there. They also must now
undergo background checks, obtain badges, and receive anti-terrorism
training.


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