Port Authority upgrading security at 3 major airports

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Planes taxi on runways at LaGuardia Airport, Monday, Sept. 8, 2008 in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)

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Eyewitness News

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is updating the security at three of its major airports.

Allied Barton Security Services will now provide 600 unarmed security guards at John F. Kennedy, Newark Liberty and LaGuardia airports.

This will replace the Port Authority's contract with its current security company.

FJC has worked for Port Authority the last 10 years and had a series of lapses in security.

The new $221 million security contract goes into effect in September.

The new contract includes a provision that employee background checks be conducted on an annual basis, and that there be increased training for prospective security guards. It also includes new positions aimed at enhancing the supervision of security personnel. Under the contract, Allied will provide management, supervision, labor, vehicles, equipment and materials for the guards to perform their duties.

"The security of our airport facilities and safety of the traveling public that uses them requires an unarmed security guard force that is vigilant and well-trained," Port Authority Chairman David Samson said. "Recognizing the critical functions these guards perform, this contract contains enhanced quality-control provisions, including increased training for prospective guards and additional supervisory posts, which will ensure the highest level of service and security for our passengers and facilities alike."

Following the approval of the contract with Allied, the Port Authority will exercise its right under the existing contract to terminate FJC early. The Port Authority can terminate the contract with Allied Barton without cause with five days notice.

In addition, the contract gives the Port Authority the option to add Stewart International and Teterboro airports at a later date. AvPorts currently provides guard services at those airports.