Port of Vancouver to restrict nighttime road access

VANCOUVER (Sept. 4, 2002) — The operator of Canada’s largest port reviewed new security measures and policies in light of the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

The Vancouver Port Authority said it will close its private port roadway between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. starting Saturday, Sept. 7. The closure will affect access through Heatley Ave., Victoria Dr., and Clark Dr. Access through McGill St. to Commissioner St. will remain open. Port customers can continue to use McGill during this period. Exceptions will be made in the case of emergencies and special events.

Among other security measure in the past year, the VPA has purchased a $2.5-million VACIS gamma ray machine to help customs officers screen containers, performed terminal threat risk assessments, and matched “level 3” U.S. security capabilities at its cruise terminals. New initiatives underway include an ID card and gate access program for workers at the port and its 25 major marine terminals; 24-hour monitoring of closed-circuit television coverage of port roadways and cruise terminals; an incident reporting program to track suspicious activity; an appointment-only system for access to the Vanterm Viewing Centre and Observation Deck, and increased lighting and signage.