Money to be used to upgrade detection systems, fencing and guard booths

JFK Airport has been awarded a grant from the Federal Aviation Administraton and the Department of Transportation totalling almost $10 million. The grant money will be used by the airport to upgrade security measures at the airport, including detection systems, fencing around the aiport and guard booths. A separate grant of just over $327,000 will be used for runway improvements.

"These FAA grants will help the Port Authority to meet its mandate to make our airports the safest and most secure in the world," said New York and New Jersey Port Authority spokesperson Pasquale DiFulco.

The grants are welcome news to Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Schumer reminded the press that last year three kids from Brooklyn were blown ashore on an inflatable raft at JFK and wandered through the property, unchallenged, until they walked right into the airport police offices.

"In this post-9/11 world, airport security needs to remain a No. 1 priority," said Schumer. "The funds will allow Kennedy International Airport to carry out its plans for a series of improvements."

FMI: www.panynj.gov/aviation/jfkframe.HTM