The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that it has filed the 2005 Boston Logan International Airport Environmental Data Report (2005 EDR) with the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act Office (MEPA).

Click here to view the report in PDF format, (requires Acrobat Reader).

The 2005 EDR responds to the Certificate on the Boston Logan International Airport 2004 Environmental Status and Planning Report (ESPR) and reports on the status of airport operations, environmental conditions, and Massport milestones achieved in 2005.

The EDR filing is followed by an extended public comment period that lasts through February 5, 2007. A MEPA consultation session on the 2005 EDR is scheduled for 4:00 to 6:00 PM on January 30, 2007, at the Logan Office Center, One Harborside Drive, East Boston, MA. Comments on the EDR should be directed to the Secretary of Environmental Affairs and should reference the Logan EDR - EOEA # 3247.

The single lane segment of I-90 East in South Boston, leading to the Ted Williams Tunnel, will be closed and detoured at night Tuesday, January 2, 2007 through Friday, January 5, 2007 from 8 PM to 5 AM the next morning.

Drivers will be detoured at Exit 24B, I-93 North, and should follow I-93 to Exit 23, Government Center, and then follow the posted detour signs via Cross Street to the Callahan Tunnel.

This closure is to allow for continued I-90 East tunnel repair.

The Port of Boston Gets 68,000-Ton Floating Tribute
"COSCO Boston" Visits Conley Terminal for the First Time Today

History will be made today when the container ship COSCO Boston makes her first visit to the city for which she is named. The China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO), one of the world’s largest steamship lines, selected the name to cement a seven-year-old relationship of growing business at the Port of Boston. The COSCO Boston is the largest vessel in the Chinese shipping company’s fleet to call Boston, and is only one of four ships in the 150-ship fleet to be named for a US port city.

“We are honored by this recognition,” said Michael A. Leone, Massport’s Port Director. “We have worked hard over the last seven years to foster a strong relationship with COSCO by building a robust customer base, improving our terminal facilities and increasing efficiency to handle these larger vessels.”

Leone said the ship is expected to be the first of several larger COSCO vessels to call Boston regularly. The bigger ships are indicative of COSCO’s confidence in the vitality and stability of the New England marketplace, even during difficult economic conditions. COSCO’s business remains strong in the six-state New England region, showing a 1% increase in imports and exports during the first six months of this year over the same time period in 2008.

Since 2002, the Boston market share of COSCO, the vessel operator, and its partners “K” Line, Yang Ming Line, and Hanjin Line, has grown from 16% to more than 50 percent today. COSCO and its partners provide direct service between Boston and ports in China and Japan which include Qingdao, Ningbo, Shanghai, and Yokohama.

"The dedication of the COSCO Boston by COSCO shows the company’s commitment to the future growth of the Port of Boston and the six-state New England region,” said Gene Hartigan, COSCO Advisor for North America. “As US-China trade continues to expand, it creates a bright future for the Port of Boston’s container cargo business.”

COSCO Boston, built in 2007, is the largest COSCO ship ever to visit the Port of Boston and will be the ninth in the current rotation of COSCO ships that come weekly. The ship is 964 feet long, weighs 68,241tons, and carries 5089 TEUs (TEU is an international shipping industry measurement for container size). Other U.S. port cities with a COSCO vessel namesake include: Long Beach, New York, Norfolk and Seattle.

The Port of Boston is preparing for larger vessels that will call Boston as a result of an expanded Panama Canal. In order enhance the port’s competitiveness, Massport completed a nearly $30 million upgrade at Conley Terminal to improve efficiency. In 2008, the Army Corps of Engineers completed a multi-million dollar dredging project to restore the federal channels within Boston Harbor to a 40-foot depth. The Port of Boston’s activity supports 34,000 jobs, and contributes more than $2 billion to the local, regional, and national economies through direct, indirect, and induced impact. Each year, the Port of Boston handles nearly 15 million metric tons of containerized and bulk cargo including petroleum, natural gas, gypsum, and salt. Top containerized imports include: beer and wine, furniture, frozen seafood, footwear and toys. Top containerized exports include: paper including waste paper, autos, scrap metal, hides, skins, logs and lumber.

Massport Board Approves Senior Appointments

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced the appointments of Edward C. Freni as director of aviation, David M. Gambone as director of human resources, Danny Theodat Levy as director of strategic marketing and communications and Thomas J. Butler as director of external affairs. Freni and Gambone have been acting directors of their respective departments for the past several months. Levy was promoted from director of communications and Butler was promoted from director of government and community affairs. 

“Each of these individuals have proven themselves as valuable members of the Authority and are very capable and knowledgeable in their respective fields,” said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., CEO and Executive Director. “With their combined expertise, Massport will continue to be a leader in transportation and to provide the critical services our customers are accustomed to receiving.”

Freni is a respected aviation professional and has been with Massport for seven years as Boston Logan’s director of operations. Prior to joining Massport, Freni held executive positions at Boston Logan and with American Airlines, he was responsible for more than 1,000 employees as General Manager. As airport operations director for Massport, Freni was responsible for the daily operations of Boston Logan International Airport. In his new capacity as aviation director, Freni will be responsible for all aspects of planning, operations, and development at Logan International Airport, L.G. Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport.

Gambone has been with Massport since 2004 as Massport’s deputy director of human resources.  In that role, Gambone was responsible for overseeing organizational development, employee training and development, performance management, and employee relations. Gambone will now be responsible for all aspects of the human resources department including strategic recruitment efforts.

As director of communications since 2004, Levy was responsible for developing Massport’s internal and external communications strategy. As director of strategic marketing and communications, Levy will now be responsible for integrating Massport’s marketing initiatives into a coordinated communications plan focusing on each of the Authority’s business units.

As director of government and community affairs since 1993, Butler was responsible for managing Massport’s relationships with local, state and federal officials. In his new capacity, he will coordinate Massport’s efforts to promote the Authority’s mission throughout a broad spectrum of constituencies including local and regional business leaders.

Massport Schedules July Board Meeting

• Passenger levels, aircraft operations, and cargo volumes;
• Planning, design, and construction activities; and
• Conditions for the key environmental indicators (Ground Transportation, Noise Abatement, Air Quality, and Water Quality Management) at Logan Airport for 2000.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is expecting heavy passenger travel at Boston Logan International Airport during the upcoming February school break, Friday, February 16, through Sunday, February 25, 2007. Massport advises the traveling public to check with their airline for first hand flight information and to allow themselves thirty (30) minutes additional commuting time to get to the airport. Because of the expected heavy travel, Massport is anticipating the need for satellite parking during this period.

As an alternative to driving to and from Boston Logan, Massport offers express bus service from Braintree (south), Framingham (west), Peabody and Woburn (north). During the February school break, Massport is offering a special weekly rate of $44 for up to two weeks stay for travelers that enter the parking lot from 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, February 15, through 11:59 p.m. Thursday, February 22.  This parking rate does not apply to the Framingham service.

Full service bus terminals and secure parking are available at each location and kids under 12 ride free.  Braintree, Framingham and Woburn buses depart every 30 minutes and Peabody departs hourly.  For more information on Logan Express visit www.flylogan.com.

To help lessen delays at the security checkpoints, the TSA has launched a public service campaign entitled, 3-1-1 for Carry Ons, that advises travelers on the quantity of liquids, gels and aerosols allowed in carry-on luggage. For more information on TSA travel regulations, please visit their website at www.tsa.gov.

Boston Logan International Airport offers domestic service to 79 destinations and international service to 35 destinations.  In 2006, the airport accommodated 27 million passengers and in 2005 generated approximately $7 billion in total economic impact to the region and $559 million in state and local taxes.    

Beginning April 4, Alaska Airlines will enter the New England market with daily service between Logan International Airport and Seattle. The new service will be the only daily non-stop service between Boston and Seattle and provide a vital link between the two high-tech hubs and popular vacation destinations. Logan will become just the third airport east of the Rockies served by Alaska Airlines.

The addition of the Seattle service brings the number of domestic and international destinations Logan provides direct service to over 70.

Alaska Airlines will operate the Seattle service with 120-seat Boeing 737-700s. The flights will depart Seattle at 8:35 am, arriving in Boston at 5:00 pm. The westbound flight departs Boston at 5:55 pm and arrives in Seattle at 9:20 pm.

Known for its high quality customer service, and leading edge technology, Alaska Airlines was recently voted the World's Best Domestic Airline by readers of Travel & Leisure Magazine.

Massport Files Environmental Notification Form for Boston Logan International Airport Runway Safety Area Improvements Project

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that it has filed an Environmental Notification Form (ENF) for the Boston Logan International Airport Runway Safety Area (RSA) Improvements Project with the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act Office (MEPA).

Click here to view the report in PDF format (16.71 MB, allow time to download).

Massport is proposing to enhance the runway safety areas at the ends of Runway 33L and Runway 22R at Logan International Airport. RSAs are safety improvements and do not extend runways or have any effect on normal runway operations, runway capacity, or types of aircraft that can use the runways. The ENF describes the purpose of, and need for, the proposed RSA enhancements, the alternatives considered, and the potential environmental impacts. The ENF will lead to a scope for a joint federal and state Draft Environmental Assessment/Environmental Impact Report (Draft EA/EIR).

The proposed improvements are required to enhance the RSAs, to the extent feasible, to be consistent with current Federal Aviation Administrations airport design criteria, and to enhance rescue access in the event of an emergency.

A 30-day public comment period for the ENF will begin on July 8th, 2009 and will end on August 7, 2009. A public consultation session is scheduled with MEPA and the FAA for 3:00 p.m. on July 30, 2009, at the Logan Office Center, located at One Harborside Drive in East Boston.

• Containerized inbound cargo increased by 8% from 2005, totaling 92,949 TEU.
• Containerized export cargo was up 7%, totaling 66,041 TEU.
• The movement of empty containers sent to overseas destinations to be refilled with import cargoes rose by 13%.
• 178,137 trucks moved in and out of Conley Terminal, an average of 715 trucks per day, marking a 6% increase over 2005.
• Vessel productivity, measuring how efficiently Massport loads and unloads ships, increased by 4% from 2005, achieving an average of 26 container moves per crane per hour.
• In December 2006, the Port of Boston welcomed global carrier CMA-CGM with a new direct service from North Europe.
• The Port of Boston is also served twice weekly by Mediterranean Shipping Company on its services from Europe and the Mediterranean.
• China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) and its partners, "K" Line, Yang Ming Line, and Hanjin call Boston weekly, providing direct service between Boston and ports in China.
• Columbia Coastal Transport provides a weekly barge service between Boston and New York carrying containers from many other steamship lines moving cargo into and out of New England from various trade lanes.

Governor Jane Swift announced today that China Ocean Shipping Group (COSCO) will provide a direct vessel call into the Port of Boston beginning in March 2002.

"This is welcome news not only for Massachusetts businesses, but many New England businesses which import and export goods to and from the Far East," said Swift. "A direct vessel call into the Port of Boston will provide New England businesses with expanded transportation options to enter the global marketplace and reduce costs."

COSCO plans to deploy a weekly vessel to Conley Container Terminal in South Boston where cargo from the Far East may be unloaded and new cargo destined for points East may be loaded. Currently, cargo bound for New England must travel via other ports such as New York /New Jersey where it is offloaded and either trucked, barged or railed to its destination.

"This is something Massport has been pursuing for years," said Tom Kinton, Massport's Acting Executive Director and CEO. "Asia currently ranks as New England's number one trading partner with some of our best-known companies like Gillette and Reebok as well as high tech start-ups which have strong economic ties to that region."

To date, although New England imports about 57% of its cargo from the Far East and exports about 33%, only a portion of this freight from Asia is shipped through the Port of Boston. A direct call from the Far East will strengthen ties with Asia and New England by providing COSCO with a direct connection to Asias largest market-New England and will increase volumes moving through Conley Terminal.

"Governor Swift and the Maritime Division of Massport have shown a strong understanding of what makes a successful relationship," said Mr. Ma Zehua, executive Vice President of China Ocean Shipping Group. "The Governor's leadership on this issue has convinced COSCO that her administration is willing to work to make this new agreement a long-term success."

This new pendulum service will consist of 12 vessels offering weekly service from Asia. COSCO and its partners, K-Line( Japan) and Yang-Ming( Taiwan) will provide the vessels.

In recent years, Massport has invested more than $100 million in infrastructure and operational improvements to the Port of Boston. The port's annual economic benefit to the region is estimated at more than $3 billion dollars and accounts for approximately 9,000 jobs.

The Port of Boston is currently served twice a week with direct inbound and outbound ocean service to Europe by Mediterranean Shipping Company, by feeder vessel from Halifax, Nova Scotia and barge service from Columbia Coastal Transport, New York.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) and Governor Jane Swift today announced that the Terminal B Parking garage will open to the public on Tuesday, January 15. The garage opening marks a milestone in the return of travelers and employees back to Logan International Airport. The Terminal B Garage, the most convenient parking facility at Logan, will open with several new security measures in place.

"I am delighted that the Terminal B parking garage is re-opening," said Swift. "This is proof that business is bouncing back at Logan and that our efforts to enhance security and improve customer confidence in Logan are working."

The garage is a favorite of business travelers and passengers using Terminal B, the busiest terminal at Logan, handling approximately 500 flights per day. Its location in the middle of the U-shaped terminal makes for a quick connection from car to ticket counter. Later this year, elevated moving walkways will connect Central Parking to Terminal B further enhancing parking options for travelers using Terminal B.

"Logan is getting back to business," said Acting Massport Executive Director Thomas. J. Kinton, Jr. "Travelers are returning to the skies, cars are filling the garage and employees are returning to work. The opening of the Terminal B Garage is sign of more good things to come."

The Terminal B Garage has been closed since September 12 when the FAA issued a security directive prohibiting parking within 300 feet of an airline terminal. Massport recently requested and received a waiver to park vehicles in the garage with increased security measures.

When the garage opens next week, travelers will be asked to open their trunks and the vehicles will be searched by parking staff. In addition to the searches, vehicles will be required to park front end in all parking spaces. Vehicles not parked front end in will be ticketed and towed. Vehicles parking in the garage may also be subject to random checks by State Police. Massport is also exploring the feasibility of using explosive detection equipment for checks at the garage.

To help handle the expected influx of vehicles, Massport has called back 26 parking employees to begin working next week. The employees will be deployed in the Terminal B Garage and the Central Garage. All employees will be trained by the State Police on how to conduct vehicle inspections.

In addition, State Police have been conducting roadblocks and random searches of vehicles three days a week at Logan. Each day the roadblock is in effect an average of 500 vehicles are searched.

For more information on parking at Logan log on to www.Massport.com or call 1-800-23-LOGAN.

As part of its effort to lead the country in innovative security enhancements, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is arming State Police troopers with wireless, hand-held computers to check up electronically on passengers, airport employees and vehicles at Logan International Airport. The pilot program consists of hand-held computers provided by Aether Systems, Inc. of Owings Mills, MD. The BlackBerry® computers include Aether's PocketBlue® software, allowing troopers to run a check quickly through the National Crime Information Center on outstanding warrants, previous felonies or stolen vehicles. Individuals and cars are selected randomly as troopers patrol various areas of the airport. If the program proves successful, Massport will eye expanding the system to include state records and tying into federal watch lists.

"As our troopers patrol terminals and garages randomly interviewing passengers, this technology allows them to check immediately if an individual is wanted by law enforcement," said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., Acting Executive Director for Massport. "This gives our agents an added tool as they conduct one-on-one interviews and strengthen our multi-layered security system at Logan."

The troopers using the wireless technology have concentrated their patrols in the airport terminals, parking facilities and the taxi pool.

"We are pleased to be part of Massport's initiative to implement best-in-class security procedures at Logan Airport," said Mike Mancuso, group president, Aether Systems. "Massport recognizes that innovative wireless applications such as PocketBlue create an infrastructure for effective command, control, communications and intelligence. Logan is leading the way for airports around the country, as they join the ranks of other government agencies who are achieving their Homeland Security objectives with PocketBlue."

Massport Approves FY 2010 Operating Budget

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today voted to approve an Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2010 of $364 million, a $13 million decline from the $377 million budget approved by the Board in June 2008.

The FY10 budget lowers the level of Massport spending on operations by $17 million, on top of the $13 million the Board cut from last year's budget. This $30 million reduction “ about 10% of the total -- is necessary if Massport is to successfully negotiate the stark economic climate facing the Authority and its industry partners.

"It's realistic that we are unlikely to see a return of growth until the second quarter of next year, at the earliest," said Massport CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr. "The FY10 operating budget is a fiscally prudent business plan that responsibly addresses the financial realities of today's severe economic recession. The budget allows us to honor our commitments to our multiple stakeholders and to provide our customers with the high level of transportation services they need and deserve.

Total projected revenues for FY10 are $551.5 million, a 5% or $31.3 million decline over the current budget. This revenue decline is consistent with nationwide economic trends and represents the first time that operating revenues are expected to decline in more than 30 years of Massport's operations, except for the unprecedented events of 9/11. This drop is due in part to a 7% decline in container volume at the Conley Terminal, real estate revenues down 6.6%, and the fact that three million fewer people are flying through Logan Airport than at its peak in 2007.

To manage the current downturn Massport “which receives no state funding -- has constructed an operating budget for FY10 that:

• Reduces Massport's workforce by 6% through hiring freezes and reductions in overtime;
• Lowers Massport's long term retirement benefit liability 40% -- or $700 million over 30 years – by making a number of eligibility and benefit modifications;
• Imposes an across the board wage freeze for all non-union employees and for those in collective bargaining units whose contracts expire as of July;
• And makes significant cuts in outside services, consultants, travel, training, office supplies, and equipment

The budget increases funding in critical areas, such as safety and security, efforts to promote high occupancy vehicle usage to and from Logan Airport and an earmark of $18.2 million for the legislated Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) payments for Boston, Chelsea and Winthrop.
Massport is governed by a seven member Board appointed by the Governor of Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Port Authority today released passenger figures for 2001 that show passenger volumes at Worcester Regional Airport up 23% over 2000. In total, 130,566 passengers flew through Worcester last year, nearly 25,000 more than in 2000. Since Massport took over operations of the airport in 2000 the passenger numbers have more than doubled.

"Massport made a commitment to make the regionalization of air traffic a reality. We made a bold commitment to reduce the burden of airport noise and traffic on communities such as East Boston, South Boston, Chelsea, and others close to Logan," said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., Massport Acting Executive Director and Aviation Director. "We are pleased to report that the numbers support this commitment."

Since taking over operation of Worcester Regional Airport in January 2000, Massport brought three new airlines to the underutilized facility in Central Massachusetts. Massport continues to market the airport and promote Worcester and other regional airports as part of a cooperative "Fly New England" campaign. In addition, Massport has partnered with the local business community to encourage area business travelers to use Worcester Regional Airport for their business travel.

Increased service from regional airports and a new runway at Logan will improve the efficiency of New England's regional transportation system.

Despite a slower than average year for travel, the Massachusetts Port Authority's (Massports) popular Logan Express service continues to gain momentum. While travel on the whole has been gradually rebounding over the last three months, Logan Express and MBTA ridership have bounced back more quickly. Logan Express carried more than 1.1 million passengers in 2001, just one percent fewer than in 2000.

The relatively strong year-end numbers for the Logan Express come despite a 12.7% decrease in passengers for 2001. The downturn is due to the drop in air travel resulting from the terrorist attacks and a slumping economy during the last quarter of the year. From 2000 to 2001, annual passenger numbers dropped from 27.7 million to 24.2 million, while flight operations decreased by 6.8%, from 487, 996 to 454, 625.

"Prior to September, Logan was poised to reach record ridership levels for high occupancy vehicle transportation," said Massport Acting Executive Director and Director of Aviation Thomas J. Kinton, Jr. "The good news is that while the number of passengers using Logan is still down from 2000, the percentage of passengers using HOV services has increased."

During the past two years, passenger growth at Logan has remained relatively flat, while Massport has focused on regionalizing aviation growth by supporting New England airports such as Worcester Regional Airport, Manchester Airport in New Hampshire, and T.F. Green Airport in Providence.

International travel, a key focus for Massport officials because of its high revenue value for the City of Boston and the state, remained relatively strong. From 2000 to 2001, the number of international passengers declined by less than 5%, from 4.5 million to 4.3 million while the number of international flights actually increased by almost 2%, from 45,183 in 200 to 45,965 in 2001.

Massport expects the number of passengers using Logan to continue to grow in coming months. Massport has initiated a number of first-in-the-nation security programs aimed at enhancing security at Logan and restoring the public's confidence in air travel.

Alaska Airlines Lands at Terminal A On June 27

Alaska Airlines, which flies nonstop to Seattle and Portland, Oregon from Boston Logan, will relocate from Terminal B to Terminal A on Saturday, June 27.

“Massport is pleased that Alaska’s passengers who fly the airline nonstop to the Pacific Northwest will be able to enjoy the benefits of Terminal A,’’ said Edward C. Freni, Massport’s Director of Aviation.

Terminal A is the world’s first LEED certified airline terminal. Terminal A received LEED certification in 2006, one year after opening. It was constructed with sustainable materials such as pre-cast concrete, panels of wood from renewable forests, and recycled products. The terminal uses 50 percent less water for irrigation and 30 percent less in bathrooms; it has special storm water filtration devices. It also has efficient windows which reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Lights automatically dim in daylight, so natural light can be used to reduce energy usage.

Alaska passengers will enjoy numerous food and beverage options in Terminal A including Au Bon Pain, Chocolate Bar, Dunkin’ Donuts, Famous Famiglia, Fresh City, Fuddrucker’s, Game On! Gourmet on the Fly, Harpoon Tap Room, Legal’s Test Kitchen, Lucky’s/Lucky Express, Panda Express, Phillips Seafood Express, Starbucks and Wendy’s. Shopping outlets include Airport Wireless, Borders, Bluwire, Brookstone, Duty Free Americas, Johnston & Murphy, L’Occitane, New England Collections, Newslink, and Taxco Sterling.

All flights will operate from Terminal B on June 26 and the airline will move to Terminal A overnight. At the same time, Massport personnel will change all roadway and terminal signage to reflect the move. Taxi, car services, shuttle bus drivers and all ground transportation outlets have been notified of the move.

Alaska Airlines has two daily nonstops to Seattle from Boston and one daily nonstop to Portland, Ore.

Boston Logan serves as the gateway to the New England region and offers nonstop service to 70 domestic and 31 international destinations and in 2008 handled 26.1 million passengers. Boston Logan is the Air Line Pilot Association’s Airport of the Year for 2008 because of its commitment to safety. Over the past decade, the airport has spent $4.4 billion on a modernization program that includes new terminals, parking facilities, roadways and airport concessions, and has transformed the airport into a world-class 21st Century facility.

Massport is committed to retaining the Fish Pier as a maritime property in support of the fishing industry and its vessels. Massport's policy is to encourage the use of the Fish Pier by commercial fishing vessels and their support industries such as ice manufacturing, net storage, net repair, fueling, and machine shops for light repairs.

Unlike fishing, fish processing does not require being on the water or access to a berth. But in the interest of serving the entire industry, Massport, in conjunction with the City of Boston, has allocated a minimum of 8 acres on the Massport Marine Terminal (North Jetty) for fish processing facilities. In 2000, Massport approved lease terms (with minimal income to Massport) and provided a $10 million guaranty necessary to finance the private development of a 65,000 sq. ft. fish processing facility on the Massport Marine Terminal. In 2001, Massport approved lease terms for Legal Sea Foods to relocate its headquarters and central fish processing facility to the Massport Marine Terminal.

Since 1972, Massport has operated the fish processing portion of the Fish Pier at a net operating budget loss, without considering depreciation or indirect, allocated costs such as insurance; in fiscal 2001 that net loss exceeded $100,000. Over the last 30 years, the accumulated loss has grown to several million dollars.

Since the late 1970's, Massport has expended $29.5 million on improvements and repairs to the pier itself, the buildings (East and West Fish Pier) and the fish processing areas within the East and West buildings. Of this amount, $8.5 million was reimbursed by the U.S Economic Development Agency.

Massport today announced new, nonstop service from Logan International Airport to Munich, Germany, beginning May 1. The flight will depart Boston six days weekly operating with 247-seat Airbus A340 aircraft. It will provide fast, convenient connections through Munich, the carriers secondary hub, to other destinations in Europe and beyond.

"Lufthansa already provides lucrative Boston-Germany service, with flights to Frankfurt," said Massport Acting Executive Director and Director of Aviation Thomas J. Kinton, Jr. "This additional service enhances Logans position as a key international airport."

Lufthansa joins ranks with other airlines in adding service from Boston. American Airlines will add second daily flights to Orlando and to San Jose beginning March 2. British Airways will restore its morning departure to London/Heathrow on April 1.

United Airlines will begin a fifth daily service to San Francisco on April 7. Delta Connection will begin three daily flights to Halifax on May 1. Flights will be operated by Atlantic Coast Airlines with Fairchild 328 regional jets.

Alaska Airlines will begin daily service between Boston and Seattle on April 4. Flights will be operated with Boeing 737-700s.

In addition to Lufthansas new Munich service, the carrier will add a seasonal second daily flight to Frankfurt on May 10. This flight also will be operated with an Airbus A340. A few sections will also be operated during April.

Massport Schedules June Board Meeting

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) has donated more than 10 boats and thousands of dollars worth of sailing equipment to the Piers Park Sailing Center (PPSC) in order to help maintain the valuable community program that has allowed hundreds of local youths to discover the joy of sailing. Massport started the East Boston Piers Park Sailing Program in 1995 to provide the public with affordable recreational sailing opportunities in Boston Harbor. In 1997, Massport contracted with the PPSC to run the program and they have been credited with turning a good idea into a successful reality for neighborhood families.

Under the terms of the agreement, Massport has donated the boats and equipment to the PPSC and licensed the sailing program offices for five years with an option for a five year extension. With these assets, worth at least $200,000, the PPSC will be much better positioned to pursue fund-raising and loan opportunities to keep the program running. In addition, Massport will continue to provide a variety of services at no cost, including use of the dock, boat storage and utilities.

When Massport implemented its recent fiscal recovery plan in response to a dramatic reduction in airline travel, it was forced to cut its $220,000 annual subsidy of the sailing program. Since then, the authority has worked to help the community program continue while adhering to budgetary constraints.

The PPSC is a community based initiative that has taught more than 500 local youths to sail and works as an active steward of the Boston Harbor by promoting appreciation and environmental awareness. The program also offers sailing opportunities to the disabled and hosts several community events and regattas.

The National Guard stationed at Logan International Airport will remain through May 31, 2002. The 108 National Guard troops stationed at Logan had been scheduled to leave Logan on March 29. Logan was one of the first airports to request the assistance of the National Guard in September.

Massport also announced that Logan's new federal security director will be named in the next two weeks. Logan will be one of the first 15 airports in the country to be assigned a federal security director. The early deployment of the security director could mean new federal security screeners would be stationed at Logan as early as this spring.

Logan was one of 15 airports selected to participate in the Transportation Security Administration pilot program to study security enhancements. By participating in the program, Logan will be amongst the first airports in the country to welcome new federal security personnel and have access to the latest security technology and procedures.

At 6:00 AM on Saturday, March 16, 2002, the Central Artery plans to open a new direct connection from the eastbound Ted Williams Tunnel (entering Logan) to the Logan Airport outbound road which connects with Route 1A. Through traffic should stay in the left lanes in the Ted Williams Tunnel and watch for signs directing traffic to this new connection. Immediately after exiting the main tunnel in East Boston, through traffic should bear right to the new ramp which will bring them directly to the airport outbound road beyond the Terminals.

This connection will eliminate the need for through traffic headed north to circle the terminal area roadways to access Route 1A. This change will cut the time it takes to access Route 1A via the Ted Williams Tunnel by 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Despite a steep decline in air travel, recent layoffs and budget cuts, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board voted today to continue to fund the Community Summer Jobs Program. Funding for the program was originally cut when Massport implemented a fiscal recovery plan in response to a dramatic reduction in airline travel and revenue. The Board approved $370,000 to support programs in nine communities and provide summer jobs for 200-250 young people.

"Summer jobs are vitally important for the development of our youth and I am pleased by the positive step that has been taken towards funding these jobs," said East Boston State Representative Anthony Petruccelli.

The Community Summer Jobs Program was developed in 1991 to assist civic and social service agencies in neighboring communities during the recession. Since then, Massport has supported more than 35 agencies and 50 individual summer programs per year. The funding has allowed agencies to offer a wide range of programs to a large number of recipients while keeping their expenses relatively low. The program has also helped thousands of local students gain valuable job skills while assisting their community at the same time.

"East Boston Social Centers is delighted that Massport will continue their long tradition of funding staff for summer programming, despite their drop in revenue. Without Massport support we could not possibly provide the quality, low-ratio staff-to-child care that we are known for at East Boston Camps in Westford, and at Playschool and early learning sites in East Boston and Chelsea," said East Boston Social centers Executive Director John Kelly. "These programs are very important to provide continuity in child care over the summer."

"The funding we receive from Massport provides supervised and educational employment opportunities for the youth of South Boston. The summer jobs program, through Massport, is a key component in prevention and education," said Kathy Lafferty, Program Director of the South Boston Summer Collaborative. "We are grateful to Massport for their past and continued support of the South Boston community and appreciate the resources available again this summer so we can continues to provide the families of South Boston with a safe, enriching summer."

The South Boston Summer Collaborative (SBSC), a collaboration between the South Boston Neighborhood House, South Boston Boys and Girls Club, Condon Community Center and Tynan Community Center, provides summer programming to hundreds of South Boston youth and over 100 South Boston teens and young adults.

"Each year Massport has been a key supporter of successful summer programming and employment opportunities for diverse young people from Chelsea and Revere," said Molly Baldwin, Executive Director of ROCA, Inc. "We are excited and grateful to learn that Massport's support will continue for the upcoming summer programming."

While Massport continues to grapple with budget issues, it has remained committed to finding ways to support local community groups. Just last month, Massport donated 10 boats and thousands of dollars worth of sailing equipment to the Piers Park Sailing Center (PPSC). With these assets, valued at approximately $200,000, the PPSC is well positioned to pursue fund-raising and loan opportunities to keep the program running. In addition, Massport will continue to provide a variety of services at no cost, including use of the dock, boat storage and utilities.

Massport will begin contacting agencies in the Community Summer Jobs Program immediately to assess needs and begin planning for summer programs.

Elected officials joined Massachusetts Port Authority and other maritime officials in welcoming China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) its maiden voyage into the Port of Boston today. At an inaugural ceremony marking the new service from the Far East, Senator Robert Havern greeted COSCO's president, Captain Wei Jiafu at Conley Terminal in South Boston. Havern and Wei were joined by Massport's Director of the Port, Mike Leone as well as many Chinese dignitaries, COSCO officials, local importers, exporters and members of the International Longshoreman's Association.

COSCO and its partners K- Line (Japan) and Yang Ming (Tawain) will deploy a weekly vessel from the Far East to Boston where cargo will be unloaded and new cargo destined for points East will be loaded. Previous to this, cargo bound for New England traveled via other ports such as New York /New Jersey to be offloaded before it was trucked, barged or railed to Boston.

The new pendulum service will consist of 12 vessels offering weekly service from Asia to the United States and Europe. The port rotation is as follows: Tokyo, Quingdao, Shanghai, Yantian, Hong Kong, ( Panama Canal) Charleston, Norfolk, New York, Boston, Valencia, Naples, Barcelona, New York, Charleston, (Panama Canal), Tokyo, Quingdao, Shanghai.

Top imports in the Port of Boston include: footwear, toys, furniture and plastic products while top exports include waste paper, lumber, household goods and fabric.

In recent years, Massport has invested more than $100 million in infrastructure and operational improvements to the Port of Boston. The port's annual economic benefit to the region is estimated at more than $3 billion dollars and accounts for approximately 9,000 jobs.

The Port of Boston is currently served twice a week with direct inbound and outbound ocean service to Europe by Mediterranean Shipping Company, by feeder vessel from Halifax, Nova Scotia and barge service from Columbia Coastal Transport, New York.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is preparing to have all checked luggage screened at Logan International Airport by hiring two firms to design and manage construction of new and expanded baggage areas that will contain additional explosive detection equipment. The design work will commence when the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) finalizes screening requirements for U.S. airports. Due to new federal law, the responsibility for screening baggage has moved from the airlines and the FAA to the newly created TSA. Massport's efforts are in anticipation of having the TSA own and operate the new baggage screening equipment.

To ensure Logan is prepared to have the TSA achieve 100% screening of checked luggage, Massport has selected DMJM+Harris to design the bag screening upgrade and AMEC Construction Management, Inc. to manage the project's eventual construction. While awaiting federal guidelines, DMJM+Harris has begun initial assessments and preliminary work reviewing Massport facilities and existing explosive detection equipment.

Over the past ten years, DMJM+Harris and AMEC have done similar work for the world's top airports including Heathrow Airport, JFK International Airport and San Francisco International Airport. The project timeline will depend on the TSA and may not be disclosed due to security concerns.

The firms also will do screening design and construction work at the two other airports operated by Massport, Hanscom Field and Worcester Regional Airport, and the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal.

Logan continues to lead the nation with several security enhancements and pilot programs, including the use of handheld computers for passenger background checks, devices that spot false passports and drivers licenses, community policing in passenger terminals, and facial recognition technology at checkpoints. In addition, Massport is working with the TSA on the use of behavior pattern recognition, a form of intelligent profiling that will ease travel delays and hassles and focus on identifying real threats.

In January 2002, Massport hosted a two-day infrastructure security seminar with 100 participants from nearly 20 U.S. airports, the FAA, and several construction and security firms. The seminar focused on incorporating developing federally mandated security initiatives in the design and construction of existing and new airport facilities.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is forming an elite unit designed to proactively combat the threat of terrorism at Logan International Airport. The specialized team, named the Airport Anti-Terrorism Unit (AAU), will receive continual training in many fields, including:

• terrorism;
• biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons;
• hostage situations and boarding of aircraft;
• crisis negotiation;
• surveillance and counter surveillance;
• terrorist behavioral pattern recognition; and
• civil rights.

The specially-trained unit will be responsible for conducting security sweeps, roadblocks, surveillance, counter surveillance, covert security testing, intelligence gathering and sharing and behavioral pattern recognition. The mission is to maintain a proactive presence in all sectors of the airport community and implement preemptive measures to secure the safety of the public and Logan employees. They also will act as a rapid response team to terrorist incidents or other high-risk situations. In addition, members will assist the Transportation Security Administration and law enforcements agencies with an array of duties and activities.

Initially, the Airport Anti-Terrorism Unit will build upon the expertise and experience of Troop F, the Massport dedicated State Police contingent. For example, State Police Sgt. Dave Thompson, a nationally recognized expert in the field of explosives, who recently rendered safe the explosive laden shoes of terrorist suspect, Richard Reid, will be a member of the unit. The unit will draw upon Troop F officers who have a wealth of know-how in the fields of K-9 training and handling, tactical response, emergency medical care, and crisis negotiation. Under Massport's former director of public safety, Joseph Lawless, many members of Troop F gained recognition and expertise in airport security over the past eight years.

Due to increased air travel and parking demand, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) re-opened Satellite Parking on Wednesday, April 3 at 8:00 am at Logan International Airport. The addition of 650 these discount-priced spaces will come as relief to the traveling public, with an additional 450 spaces available for peak travel times.

Satellite parking has been closed since September 11th, 2001.

As passenger numbers have rebounded at Logan, the airport parking garages have been filling, prompting the need for Massport to recall ten parking employees to work and re-open the Satellite lots. Six cashiers and four parking attendants will join the 26 employees Massport rehired in January when the Terminal B parking garage was re-opened.

Parking rates at Satellite lots are discounted from the terminal area garage rates. Satellite is ideal for travelers who need long-term parking. Please note that new parking rates for terminal area garages and Satellite lots took effect in November 2001. In addition, with lower-cost Satellite lots open for long-term parking, the weekly rate of $99 instituted in the terminal area garages when Satellite closed, will be discontinued.

Satellite lots are located on the airport and may be accessed via the outbound roadway at Logan. Signs direct travelers where to turn onto the service road and how to access Satellite parking.

The rates are as follows:

Satellite Parking:
$16 per day, $80 maximum for 7 days.

Central Parking and Terminal B Garage:
$22 per day (no weekly rate)

Hourly incremental rates remain unchanged at all facilities.

For more information on parking availability and ground transportation alternatives, please call 1-800-23-LOGAN (TTY: 1-800-262-3335) or log on to www.massport.com

The Massachusetts Port Authority was recently commended by the United States Coast Guard for its valuable assistance in protecting the Port of Boston after the tragedies of September 11, 2001.

A Certificate of Merit, citing several areas of recognition stated: "Under the leadership of Port Director Michael Leone, Massport proactively instituted a number of critical security measures in the port including expeditious increases in security at Black Falcon Cruise Terminal, Boston Autoport, and Conley Terminal."

Massport's efforts ensured the safety of regularly scheduled cruise ships entering Boston Harbor as well as numerous unscheduled vessels which were diverted from New York City. Safety measures at Black Falcon Cruise Terminal were spearheaded by Massport's Captain Bradley Wellock. Wellock received recognition for coordinating security measures such as extensive baggage screening, hull dive surveys and the addition of extra security personnel.

Although the Coast Guard oversees the movement of all vessels in and out of the harbor, Massport was recognized for providing crucial assistance in carrying out the complex security plan for the movement of liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels through Boston Harbor.

Massport's initiation of weekly security meetings with port operators and maritime officials was lauded as crucial in managing open communications and fostering effective partnerships among various agencies with port security responsibilities. Similarly, its involvement in anti-terrorism response exercises which are led by the Marine Incident Resource and Training Partnership (MIRT) were also noted. MIRT's objective is to improve the ability of first responders and public health agencies in the event of a maritime disaster.

"Massport's efforts have been integral in ensuring the continued safe and secure flow of commerce through the Port of Boston and are in keeping with the highest tradition of the United States Coast Guard," the certificate states.

In addition to Port Director Mike Leone and Captain Brad Wellock, recipients of this award included: Director of Maritime Security Joseph Lawless and Assistant Fire Chief, Denis Keenan.

The City Water Taxi, Boston Harbor's only on-call water shuttle, is back in operation as the start of their new season begins this week. Diligently delivering passengers, the City Water Taxi, with its familiar green canopies has been a landmark in these waters since 1996.

As part of a growing transportation network, the City Water Taxi is one of many inner and outer harbor vessels carrying commuters and visitors to points around Boston.

It is one of three services making calls at Logan Airport and joins the Airport Water Shuttle and the Harbor Express in transporting passengers to and from the airport.

This year, the City Water Taxi has increased its fleet from four vessels to five and its on- water call stops from 12 to 13. Passengers can hop aboard at any of the following locations: Logan Aiport/Harborside Hyatt; Fleet Pavilion; World Trade Center; Anthony's at Pier 4, Fan Pier/U.S. Court House; The Barking Crab Restaurant, Museum Wharf; Long Wharf Marriott; Lewis Wharf; Burrows Wharf; North Station/Fleet Center; Charlestown Navy Yard; USS Constitution.

"Traveling by water to or from the airport is easy and convenient and allows passengers to enjoy Boston's historic harbor," said Massport Executive Director and CEO, Thomas J. Kinton, Jr.

At Logan Airport, shuttle buses make regular stops at the water dock, all airport terminals and the MBTA station.

From the Logan dock, the City Water Taxi connects with 13 landings in the harbor and costs $10.00 to downtown locations and $15.00 to Charlestown. The Airport Water Shuttle departs every 20 minutes taking passengers to Rowes Wharf and the Harbor Express serves the South Shore from Quincy's Fore River Shipyard making direct connections between Logan Airport and Long Wharf.

Passengers at Logan International Airport now will be able to keep their airline ticket, passport, and drivers license all in one place with a new ticket jacket offered by the Massachusetts Port Authority. The handy ticket jacket has slots to hold all the documents necessary for airline and federal government security checks, easing hassles for travelers who are required to present identification at least three times. Logan is the first airport to offer such a convenience to the traveling public.

The ticket jackets are available throughout the terminals at Logan and will be distributed by Massport staff during peak travel times. Travel tips to further assist passengers through security checkpoints are listed on the back of the ticket and ID folder. Some of the tips include:
Place items from your pockets in your carry-on or have them ready to be placed in a plastic container at the security scanner.
Place all carry-on luggage on its side on the scanning belt.
Have your cell phone, pager, laptop and other electronic devices ready for a battery check.

In addition, Massport has partnered with the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) to develop a video to illustrate new security checkpoint procedures. The video will be tested at the Delta checkpoint in Terminal C starting Tuesday, April 9th. The video demonstrates how to approach the checkpoint, what actions passengers should be prepared to take and how to handle baggage and other personal items. If the program proves effective at Logan, AAAE will work with airports across the country to expand the program.

The Massport effort is part of the nationwide program, "Keep American Flying".

The Tobin Bridge's northbound right lane will close beginning, Monday, April 15 for up to two weeks. An arrow board indicating the lane closure will be set up at the old toll booth on the lower level, to advise motorists.

The lane closing is a safety measure during construction of the containment area from which workers will clean and repaint the bridge structure. The containment area begins at sign post C-1 and continues to the end of the bridge, closing 300 feet of roadway on the lower deck including the Beacon Street Ramp.

To protect Chelsea residents and to minimize noise and inconvenience, construction workers will communicate with each other via two-radios, and also use low noise-level construction equipment. Electric light towers will be raised higher than residential buildings and turned away from the community during the 7:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. construction work schedule. This project is a continuation of Massport's initiative to rid the bridge of lead paint.

This launches phase six of Massport's nine phase painting project begun in 1992. The on-going painting process is necessary to protect the steel structure from corrosive effects of New England winters and ocean salt and insure the integrity of the bridge.

"Massport utilizes an environmentally-friendly abrasive cleaning system and lead-free paint for the protection and safety of our neighbors and the bridge," said Mary Jane O'Meara, Massport's director of the Tobin Bridge.

The containment area is a tightly-sealed, negative-pressure, vacuum space where workers use an abrasive cleaning agent which is recaptured, sanitized and reused in the encapsulated area. Paint chips are contained from the time they come off the steel to the time they are sealed in containers to ensure public and environmental protection.

Massport's procedures for this phase-six painting project include a stringent set of controls based on guidelines from the Society of Protective Coatings, considered the industry standard for the protection of public health and the environment.

As with the previous phases, regular on-site environmental testing of air quality and particulate emissions will take place.

"Massport prides itself for an air quality monitoring program that surpasses city, state or federal guidelines," said O'Meara.

Once the containment area is constructed, the cleaning and painting phase will begin: Monday through Fridays, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for approximately eight weeks.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) announced today the appointment of Craig P. Coy of Boston as its new executive director and chief executive officer. Coy has held executive management roles in the public and private sector, nationally and internationally. In addition, his significant experience includes executive responsibilities in the U.S. Coast Guard, The White House and other senior federal positions.

"The exhaustive search paid off," said Marshall Carter, head of Governor Jane Swift's Special Advisory Task Force on Massport. "We found in Coy a tough, focused, seasoned executive with unparalleled leadership capability and first-hand experience in dealing with counter-terrorism issues. He can deal with the details of budgets, federal bureaucracy or bomb detection. He has it all."

"We have found a proven leader who will restore Massport's credibility with the public," said Mark Robinson, chairman of the Massport Board. "Coy's executive experience spans human resources, planning, finance, and marketing. He has managed staff of senior military, law enforcement, public and private sector employees. He knows Washington politics and understands the need for consensus building with local elected officials and neighborhood leaders. I'm confident that he has the talent, dedication and stamina to manage Massport back to its rightful place as a premier transportation agency."

Coy will come to Massport with a four year contract and an annual salary of $250,000. "A contract, which includes a clearly articulated severance and pension clause, was necessary to retain a top quality executive director for Massport," added Carter. "Such an arrangement is commonplace in the private sector and included as part of the compensation arrangements of several other similar transportation authorities."

Most recently, Coy was the chief executive officer and president of HR Logic, Inc., the largest U.S. private professional employer organization, providing human resource programs for 3,000 companies across the nation. His past experience also includes:
vice president/general manager for Lear Siegler Services, Inc.
chief operating officer for the U.S. Coast Guard Activities/Europe
deputy director for counter-terrorism, National Security Council, The White House
special assistant in the Office of Policy Development, The White House
"I'm honored and proud to join the team of more than 1,000 hard-working Massport employees," said Coy. "I am eager to begin immediately and will do so by convening the senior team tomorrow. Throughout my career I've enjoyed my public service positions and I look forward to getting to work."

Coy started his career in the U.S. Coast Guard and was a helicopter aircraft commander. He is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (BS) and Harvard Business School (MBA). Coy was the first Coast Guard officer ever selected to be a White House Fellow.

The search for a new executive director for Massport began last November when the Authority retained the global executive recruiting firm of Russell Reynolds Associates. Over 175 individuals were contacted from a variety of organizations including port and airport authorities in the U.S., Canada and Europe as well as airlines, transportation associations, consulting firms, federal, state and municipal agencies and firms involved in aviation, finance and airport construction. Russell Reynolds coordinated the effort with the Massport Board and the Carter Commission Implementation Team, comprised of Marshall Carter, Patricia McGovern and Sheila Widnall.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced the opening of state-of-the-art pedestrian bridges with moving sidewalks connecting Terminal B with Central Parking at Logan International Airport. The $37 million walkways contain sparkling terrazzo floors depicting the undersea creatures native to New England waters and will make traveling easier for Terminal B's 9.8 million passengers per year.

At 12 feet high and 26 feet wide, the walkways make a dramatic visual statement and provide stunning views of Logan's airfield and the city. The walkways complement the Terminal A & E walkways which opened in September of 1998. When the final walkway opens this June, connecting from Terminal C, each or Logan's terminal will have a direct, convenient connection to Central Parking.

Like the Terminal A & E walkways, travelers connect to the new walkways through the fourth level of Central Parking. Prior to the opening of the new walkway, travelers connecting between Central Parking and Terminal B had to carry their baggage through a small, dark passageway and down a flight of stairs. Terminal B is Logan's busiest terminal.

The artwork in the Terminal B walkway's terrazzo floor was developed by Somerville artist Jane Goldman. Goldman also created the marine artwork that appears in the Terminal A &E walkways. The vibrant and authentic sea creatures that appear in the walkways were painstakingly researched and recreated in the terrazzo floors, forming the largest piece of public art in New England. The marine images provide a warm welcome for travelers and help conjure images of New England's rich marine life.

The new walkways are a key element of the $4 billion Logan Modernization Program.

The project was designed by Cambridge Seven and constructed by M. DeMatteo Construction. The construction manager was Gilbane Building Company.

Boston is gearing up for the start of its cruise season which officially begins on Sunday, April 28th. More than 90 vessels and more than 200,000 passengers are scheduled to set sail from Massport's Black Falcon Cruise Terminal to various destinations including Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and England. The 2002 season runs from April through October.

This season marks the ninth consecutive year in which Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Majesty will make its weekly run to Bermuda. Norwegian Majesty will begin sailing from Boston to St. Georges on Sunday, April 28 and continue for weekly service for the next 26 weeks.

Transatlantic sailing from Boston to Harwich, England will be available aboard The Rotterdam and also on Cunard's QE2 New England/Canada run. New to Boston in September will be Residensea's The World, a large, new vessel featuring on-board residences. This vessel is the world's first ocean-going luxury resort and will mark its maiden voyage to Italy in early May. The World offers world-class amenities to residents of the 110 spacious units and 88 guest suites while circumnavigating the globe.

Holland America's Boston to Canada cruises, a long-time favorite for those fond of foliage, has added summer cruises to its itinerary this year. It's famed flagship, The Rotterdam will make its debut in Boston, offering seven and ten day cruises to Eastern Canadian Ports such as Halifax, Montreal, Quebec and Prince Edward Island. North Atlantic sailings are also available on Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas and Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Dream.

Silver Seas Cruise Lines has scheduled visits to Canada as well as one day port of call visits aboard the luxury vessel, Silver Shadow and the Cunard/Seabourne Line will do the same with its elegant Seabourn Pride.

Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruise Line will showcase their newer vessels in Boston this year. The Carnival Legend and the Golden Princess both feature passenger capacities in excess of 2,000 each.

Passengers traveling from Boston's Black Falcon Cruise Terminal this season should be prepared for enhanced security measures. Only ticketed passengers will be allowed inside the main terminal before passing through mandatory checkpoints. At the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal, all luggage will be scanned including carry-on and checked luggage. Picking up and dropping off of passengers will not be allowed under the drive through. Parking is available at the EDIC garage located a short distance from the terminal.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is seeking proposals from a qualified firm or person to procure, install, implement and support a System consisting of at least the following components:

 
a. parking revenue control
b. space count system with directional signage
c. license plate recognition
d. license plate inventory
e. pay-on-foot
f. credit card processing
g. supporting communications network
h. software
i. system interfaces with PeopleSoft, Inc. financial accounting system, Massport's corporate website, the SmartTraveler system, the airport radio station information system, Massport's security unit's system, Logan Express parking systems at each suburban lot.
j.  bus ticketing
k. parking reservation system

A pre-proposal conference and tour of the facilities will be held on May 16 and proposals are due by 4 EST on July 1. RFP packages may be requested from Maxine Mattheis via e-mail at mmattheis@massport.com.
 

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board voted today to develop a formal Charitable Contributions Program to support civic initiatives in neighboring communities, continuing Massport's history of strong local ties ands involvement.

The enhanced policy reflect the recommendations made by the Carter Commission to establish a budget for annual community contributions. Under the new policy, 2% of the Authority's average net revenue for the most recent five years will be designated for community charitable contributions annually (approximately $400,000 on average).

Civics groups must complete an application requesting Massport support for their program or event. The applications will be reviewed by the newly formed Employee Evaluation Committee, a group of Massport employees who reside in the impacted communities included in the program: East Boston, South Boston, Winthrop, Chelsea, Charlestown and Revere.

Massport's charitable contributions are generally given to scholarship and athletic programs, local social centers and civic activities within communities impacted by Massport's operations. All charitable contributions will be tallied on a monthly basis and presented to the Massport Board. Any requests for assistance for more than $5,000 in one fiscal year will require the approval of the Massport Board.

Funding for the many community programs Massport supports was in jeopardy when Massport implemented a fiscal recovery plan in response to a dramatic reduction in airline travel and revenue. While Massport continues to deal with challenging budget issues, it has remained committed to finding ways to support local community groups. This year Massport appropriated $370,000 to fund a community summer jobs program in impacted communities. These funds ensure that hundreds of local young people will have gainful employment and that community agencies will continue to offer summer programming. Prior to that, Massport donated 10 boats and thousands of dollars worth of sailing equipment to the Piers Park Sailing Center (PPSC). These assets were valued at approximately $200,000. In addition, Massport has committed to provide a variety of services at no cost, including use of the dock, boat storage and utilities. Massport also recommitted to its environmental mitigation program and payments-in-lieu-of-taxes to the host communities of Boston, Winthrop and Chelsea.

Next week, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) will begin negotiating long-term leases with its seafood processing tenants on the Boston Fish Pier. The agency will offer leases of up to 25 years at market rates to current businesses on the Fish Pier.

"I will work with City of Boston and the fishing community as we strive to keep our historic fishing tradition on the Fish Pier," said Massport CEO and Executive Director Craig P. Coy. "Massport remains focused on maintaining a strong maritime presence on Boston's waterfront."

The leases demonstrate Massport's commitment to retaining the seafood industry on the Fish Pier. Massport will also continue to subsidize operations on the Pier by providing:

• Free berthing for active fishing vessels (berthing in Gloucester and Portland is approximately $4,500 per year per vessel)
• Free space for Auction facility ($25,000 savings for the Auction)
• Free security
• Overall maintenance of the Pier including building, fender system, utility systems and roadways and aprons
  Parking for processors and boat owners at rates far below market.
• The tenants' current leases expire December 31, 2004. Currently, the average lease cost for processing space on the Fish Pier is approximately $8 per square foot. In comparison, the new Harbor Seafood Center nearby charges an average rent of $15.45 per square foot.

In February 2002, Massport's Board approved a policy statement to retain the Fish Pier for maritime use and to support the fishing industry. Since February, Massport staff has met with many of the tenants, conducted an analysis of the costs and revenues at the Fish Pier and retained the services of an independent real estate consultant familiar with maritime rents.

Since 1973, Massport has invested more than $16 million in fish processing and vessel related capital improvements on the Fish Pier. Massport will continue to invest in the Fish Pier to make sure that it remains the home of the Boston fishing fleet and related activities.

Effective Friday, May 17, 2002, the Army National Guard will complete the withdrawal of troops from Logan International Airport. The Guardsmen were stationed at security checkpoints where their duties included checking identification and boarding passes. They will be replaced by State Police Troopers.

"The men and women of the National Guard provided a valuable service at our nation's airports and we thank them for their service at Logan," said Massport CEO and Executive Director Craig P. Coy.

State Police are already patrolling the terminals at Logan as part of their Community Policing Program. Troopers are assigned to patrol a particular terminal and become familiar with the day-to-day operations and airline, cleaning and concession personnel. A State Police supervisor is assigned to oversee each terminal operation.

In addition, Massport and the State Police have formed an elite unit designed to proactively combat the threat of terrorism at Logan International Airport. The specially-trained unit will be responsible for conducting security sweeps, roadblocks, surveillance, counter surveillance, covert security testing, intelligence gathering and sharing and behavioral pattern recognition. The mission is to maintain a proactive presence in all sectors of the airport community and implement preemptive measures to secure the safety of the public and Logan employees. They also will act as a rapid response team to terrorist incidents or other high-risk situations. In addition, members will assist the Transportation Security Administration and law enforcement agencies with an array of duties and activities.

The Massachusetts Port Authority has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management.

The annual financial report was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story.

"This achievement was earned through the hard work, persistence and pursuit of excellence by a number of Massport professionals in several departments," said Leslie Kirwan.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 14,000 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago, Illinois, and Washington, D.C. For more information on the GFOA, please contact Stephen Gauthier at (312) 977-9700.

Massport's CEO and Executive Director Craig P. Coy unveiled the "Healing the World" Children's Art Exhibition in Terminal B at Logan International Airport, Tuesday, June 11, and presented awards of excellence to 50 students from Chelsea, East Boston, South Boston and Winthrop schools, whose works were selected for display.

Coy thanked the principals, art teachers, students and families of the public and parochial schools who accepted Massport's invitation to participate in the 'Healing the World' Children's Art Exhibition and submitted artworks expressing their ideas on peace, patriotism and heroism in the aftermath of the September 11 tragedy. Some 400 artworks were submitted.

Coy said September 11 was a "terrible day for this country---and for all of us" but added the resulting heroism, self-sacrifice and spirit of patriotism continue to inspire, amaze and unite us.

"Thanks to your efforts these expressions of hope and peace will inspire our passengers and the thousands of people who work at Logan everyday," Coy told students.

The idea for a children's art exhibition originated at Miami International Airport last November to offer travelers an uplifting sense of comfort and unity through the eyes of the nation's children. Students in Los Angeles and Oakland contributed to the Miami exhibition.

The exhibit proved so popular with airline passengers, it began a national tour of airports. Baltimore-Washington was its second stop before American Airlines transported the artworks to Logan for exhibition.

"The hope reflected in these drawings strengthened our resolve to move forward toward recovery," added Coy. "Massport is delighted to showcase the works of these children."

At each city, school children are invited to contribute artworks for the exhibit. A few of those works are included in the traveling exhibition. In Boston, 11 artworks from students in grades 2 through 9, will accompany the exhibition when it departs at the end of August for O'Hare Airport in Chicago and then Phoenix International Airport.

The schools participating in the "Healing the World" Children's Art Exhibition are: The Chelsea Early Learning Center; the Samuel Adams School, Dante Alighieri School, Manassah E. Bradley School, Patrick Kennedy School, H.R. O'Donnell School, Domenic Savio Preparatory School and Umana/Barnes School in East Boston; Gate of Heaven School, Oliver Perry School, and St. Augustine's School in South Boston; and the Winthrop Middle School.

Logan International Airport, today, received approval for a permanent inline 100% hold baggage screening plan, paving the way for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to purchase, install and operate an airport-wide checked luggage screening system. Due to federal law signed by President George W. Bush in November 2001, the responsibility for screening baggage has moved from the airlines and the FAA to the newly created TSA.

"After months of lobbying the Transportations Security Administration and the Department of Transportation and all of us working hard to make Massachusetts safer in this post 9-11 world, the TSA has responded by approving the first in the nation, 100% screening of baggage at Logan Airport," said Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA). "Logan is the hub of our export-based, ideas-driven economy and this decision by the TSA is an important step to return public confidence in air travel into and out of the Bay State."

"Congress handed TSA the ball on baggage screening. TSA has thrown the pitch and we've hit the ball, now we're headed to first base. Making contact with the ball is an individual effort, but scoring a run is a team effort and that's why I pledge to continue the good work that we've started with the Congress, the Governor, Mayor Menino, and the federal government," said Massport CEO Craig P. Coy, who traveled to Washington, D.C. earlier this month to meet with Congressional leaders and DOT and TSA staff.

Massport developed Logan's 100% bag screening program in conjunction with the TSA and a design and construction team consisting of DMJM+Harris and AMEC Construction Management, Inc. Several Massport security consultants, including Rafi Ron's New Age Aviation Security and Counter Technology Incorporated (CTI), reviewed and approved the plan.

The luggage screening plan calls for an inline system built in enhanced and expanded baggage handling rooms throughout the airport. This design allows the TSA to install and operate the explosive detection system without decreasing the public space available to passengers in the airport terminals. The project provides a permanent solution integrated with airline and airport operations and avoids any temporary or make-shift design or procedures to achieve 100% checked luggage screening. The design and construction costs for Massport are estimated at $100 million; this figure does not include the purchase and installation of the explosive detection machines that will be covered by the TSA.

During a peak hour, the airlines at Logan handle up to 5,000 pieces of luggage. As designed, the inline 100% bag screening system will accommodate present and future capacity.

In preparation for new federal guidelines and requirements, Massport hosted a two-day infrastructure security seminar in January 2002 with 100 participants from nearly 20 U.S. airports, the FAA, and several construction and security firms. The seminar focused on incorporating federally mandated security initiatives in the design and construction of existing and new airport facilities.

Susana M. Segat, long-time union official and former school committee member, was sworn in today as the labor member of the Massport Board, replacing local Teamster president George Cashman who resigned last January.

Segat is currently Deputy Trustee of Local 254 of the Service Employees International Union. She is also Political Director of the 81,000 member SEIU Massachusetts State Council.

Since first joining the union 23 yeas ago, Segat has held a number of positions with the SEIU in both Boston and Washington D.C. As Director of the Office Worker Division, Segat is credited with the development of innovative bargaining strategies for addressing such issues as sexual harassment, pay equity, family and medical leave, assault on the job, technological change, and job redesign.

Segat is a former member of the Cambridge School Committee and continues to serve as Commissioner and Founding Chair of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.

Mr. John Silva
Manager, Environmental Programs
FAA
12 New England Executive Park
Burlington, MA 01803
781-238-7602

Only three weeks after becoming the first major U.S. airport to receive approval for a 100% bag screening program, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today began the construction necessary for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to meet its new requirement for scanning checked luggage. The construction of the expanded and enhanced baggage handling rooms is expected to cost as much as $100 million and will house the TSA's new screening equipment and personnel.

The TSA is under a Congressional mandate to implement 100% baggage screening at all of the nation's airports by December 31st, 2002. Recently, 39 airports across the country sent a letter to Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Norman Mineta requesting that the deadline be pushed back. Instead of joining those airports, Massport worked with Senators Kennedy and Kerry and Congressmen Markey and Capuano and received the support of the entire Massachusetts Congressional Delegation to gain TSA approval for a plan developed by an internationally recognized team of experts.

Today's construction marks a new phase in the ongoing seven day-a-week effort to have the TSA meet its December 31st deadline. Moving from the design phase to the construction phase, crews today began breaking ground on the first of 15 separate areas to be built or expanded. After removing debris, the construction crews will drive piles, lay foundations and erect steel frames for the new facilities. Massport officials will provide periodic updates as the construction proceeds.

"Today, the hard part begins. The schedule for this monumental task has no room for error," said Massport CEO Craig P. Coy. "Over the next six months, Massport will remain vigilant and focused because any slippage in the project can push the completion date beyond the new year."

Massport developed Logan's 100% bag screening program in conjunction with the TSA and a design and construction team hired in March 2002. The luggage screening plan calls for an inline system built in enhanced and expanded baggage handling rooms throughout the airport. This design allows the TSA to install and operate the explosive detection system without decreasing the public space available to passengers in the airport terminals. The project provides a permanent solution integrated with airline and airport operations and avoids any temporary or make-shift design or procedures to achieve 100% checked luggage screening.

During a peak hour, the airlines at Logan handle up to 5,000 pieces of luggage. As designed, the inline 100% bag screening system will accommodate present and future capacity.

In preparation for new federal guidelines and requirements, Massport hosted a two-day infrastructure security seminar in January 2002 with 100 participants from nearly 20 U.S. airports, the FAA, and several construction and security firms. The seminar focused on incorporating federally mandated security initiatives in the design and construction of existing and new airport facilities.

Massachusetts Port Authority officials today met with representatives of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau and members of the media to participate in a roundtable discussion on Boston's cruise business.

The forum provided an opportunity for the media to learn about the cruise industry in Boston including business trends and issues, its economic impact on the region, the 2002 season and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines' program of Canadian sailings from Boston. Also touched upon were port security measures at Boston's Black Falcon Cruise Terminal and the changed climate since September 11, 2001.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will make four ten night sailings and one seven night sailing from Boston this season. On September 15th, it's newest vessel, Brilliance of the Seas will make its United States debut in the Port of Boston. This new 88,000 ton ship will be launched in Europe on July 13th for a series of summer cruises before making its maiden voyage to the United States in mid-September.

"This marks the sixth consecutive year that Royal Caribbean has had a solid presence in the Port of Boston," said Craig Coy, CEO of Massport. "We are delighted that their newest vessel, Brilliance of the Seas, will make Boston her first port of call when she comes to the United States."

This season, Massport's Black Falcon Cruise Terminal will host 93 vessel calls and handle more than 200,000 passengers. The cruise business continues to steadily climb as Boston proves an exciting destination for travelers. In 1986, there were just 13 vessel calls in Boston.

Testimony of Craig P. Coy Chief Executive Officer, Massachusetts Port Authority To the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation.

Chairman Hollings and members of the Committee.

For the record my name is Craig P. Coy, Chief Executive Officer of the Massachusetts Port Authority, owner and operator of Boston's Logan International Airport.

The Transportation and Aviation Security Act which you passed last November represents an extraordinary commitment by this nation to the safety and security of everyone who travels.

In its scope and urgency, this new act - with its historic mandate to screen every piece of baggage that goes on a commercial airliner -- belongs with those other celebrated actions America has taken in our past when foreign attacks have forced this nation to mobilize quickly for war.

As the new head of Massport and Logan Airport, I took this new mandate for 100 percent baggage screening as a rallying cry. It represents a stretch goal around which all of our employees and the citizens of Boston can identify and point to achieving with pride. Every airport is unique, with its own set of circumstances. The Massport Board of Directors and I believed in no uncertain terms that we would lead the way.

Since coming to the Massachusetts Port Authority about three months ago my top priority has been to make sure we are doing everything we can to work with the TSA to encourage them to meet all their mandates - including the 100 percent baggage screening program.

My analogy is that TSA was handed the ball on baggage screening. They've pitched the ball to us and we've hit a long shot to centerfield. We're running hard to first base. It's a long way to home plate and we're not yet sure we'll get there to score the winning run. However, there is one thing I know: in sports, in life, or in public policy, we will never succeed unless we try.

This security precaution is long overdue, and designing and building a system to screen more than a billion pieces of luggage that fly domestically every year is an enormous challenge for this nation.

I knew Logan would never have a chance to make this deadline unless we committed 100 percent to the effort. We put our best people on the project and hired the very best consultants from around the world - the same consultants, in fact, as those hired by the TSA.

Because of the role that Logan played on the attacks on September 11 Massport has been very aggressive about this project. So, rather than back away from this challenge, we asked the TSA to accelerate our plans instead.

We were professional and polite -- but persistent. We worked closely with the TSA, early and often - maybe earlier and more often than they really appreciated. We called them on cell phones and at home.

We made numerous trips to Washington to present our plan. When there wasn't a conference room available, we rented one in a nearby hotel.

And on June 14, Logan became the first major airport in the country to receive federal approval for a hold baggage screening plan.

I can't say enough about the help that we received from Senator Kerry, Senator Kennedy, and the entire Massachusetts Congressional Delegation in moving this project forward.

I also want to say, that the cooperation Massport has received from the TSA, in our joint efforts to make sure Logan meets this important deadline, has been outstanding.

George Naccara, the TSA security director for Logan, is on board and our staffs could not be working more closely together. Last week, we met together with two Massachusetts firms that manufacture screening equipment to impress upon them the urgency of stepping up production. As local Massachusetts companies, we are glad to have them as part of our team, and they have assured us they are fully committed to making Logan's effort a success.

Once we got the go-ahead from the TSA, we have pulled out all the stops to have an inline Hold Baggage Screening system at all our active terminals by December 31.

Because of Logan's severe land constraints, high passenger volume, and the advanced age of our facilities, it is arguably more difficult to build these screening facilities at Logan than at any other airport in the country.

What helped immensely was the comprehensive, complex computer model we used at the outset of the project that allowed us to see how different baggage screening systems would interact with the rest of the airport.

Right from the start we were able to rule out an interim, lobby solution because our computer models showed us we simply didn't have the room. We have also been able to design our facilities so they are flexible enough to accommodate new systems as they evolve. During peak times, Logan handles up to 5,000 pieces of luggage an hour. As designed, the inline bag screening system will accommodate both present and future capacity without delays at the check-in lines.

On July 11, just three weeks after getting TSA approved, Massport broke ground on a project that includes the renovation of approximately eleven bag rooms, major building additions at approximately seven locations, and the construction of five new substations to handle the electrical load.

Accelerated construction like this, at an airport like ours, must be choreographed to perfection. To get the work done we are busing workers to secure areas, prefabricating sections offsite, pre-purchasing materials, and performing other amazing feats of engineering magic.

My motto has always been, every person counts, every act counts. But on this project the motto is: every minute counts, because we have none to spare. For the most part we will be running double shifts six days a week, and at times working around the clock all week-long.

Another important benefit was the waiver we received from the state from certain public procurement laws, which was supported from the Governor on down. It pared the normal two to three month bidding process down to just ten days. And we are still doing competitive bids.

Contractors bring a signed copy of our proposed contract to the bid opening, and if they are the low bidder, our construction manager signs the contract right on the spot so they can start that day. In public construction, this us unheard of.

Being first is a double edge sword. There are no rules to slow us down, which is a good thing. But neither are there guidelines to help steer the way. And the schedule for completing this monumental task leaves no room for error. Over the next five months Massport will remain vigilant and focused because any slippage in the project can push the completion date beyond the new year.

Progress on hold baggage screening is just one of a number of security firsts for Massport. Again, because a group of evil men stole two airplanes from Logan Airport on September 11 with 177 innocent people on board, Massport feels a special obligation to be a national leader for airport security, as well as port security at our maritime facilities.

For the past several months, we have been working with the TSA as one of 15 airports helping to establish security procedures and protocols for all 439 commercial airports in this country.

Logan has also volunteered as a test site for the development of promising new security technologies, including a first-in-the-nation facial recognition program, hand-held wireless devices that let security personnel access the National Crime Information Center while walking the beat, as well as technology that can detect fake passports or other bogus identification.

Massport is aggressively pursuing these programs along with 100 percent hold baggage screening. We are committed to providing our passengers with the best possible security, as quickly as possible. We have opened our wallet and spent a lot of money to do the job right and do it fast. Six days after getting TSA approval for the baggage screening plan, and with no written guarantee of federal reimbursement, Massport committed $100 million to complete the project.

But I do not want to understate the enormous financial strain that this unfunded federal mandate puts on Massport, and all airports, seriously impacted by the attacks on September 11. We will continue to seek financial support for these federal mandates, but are prepared to act now.

Already, September 11 has forced Massport to cut $51 million from our programs, lay-off 15 percent of our workforce, and, in the midst of our most aggressive building program in history, delay more than 37 percent of our capital projects.

Nevertheless, we believe strongly in the promises made by this nation to the flying public when you passed, and the President signed, the Transportation and Aviation Security Act, We also fully support the new federal mandate to inspect every piece of luggage that flies out of our airport.

Massport has stepped forward and done its part to help the federal government meet this mandate. Critically important to the continued success of this historic effort to protect the safety and security of the people who use America's airports is the assurance, which all airports need, that the federal government's commitment remains just as strong.

Thank you and I will be happy to take questions.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is expecting heavy passenger travel at Boston Logan International Airport during the upcoming April school break, Wednesday, April 11, through Sunday, April 22, 2007. Massport advises the traveling public to check with their airline for first hand flight information and to allow themselves thirty (30) minutes additional commuting time to get to the airport.

As an alternative to driving to and from Boston Logan, Massport offers express bus service from Braintree (south), Framingham (west), Peabody and Woburn (north). During the April school break, Massport is offering a special weekly rate of $44 for up to two weeks stay for travelers that enter the parking lot from 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, April 12, 2007 through 11:59 p.m. Friday, April 20, 2007. This parking rate does not apply to the Framingham service.

Full service bus terminals and secure parking are available at each location and kids under 12 ride free. Braintree, Framingham and Woburn buses depart every 30 minutes and Peabody departs hourly. For more information on Logan Express visit www.flylogan.com.

To help lessen delays at the security checkpoints, the TSA has launched a public service campaign entitled, 3-1-1 for Carry Ons, that advises travelers on the quantity of liquids, gels and aerosols allowed in carry-on luggage. For more information on TSA travel regulations, please visit their website at www.tsa.gov.

Boston Logan International Airport offers domestic service to 79 destinations and international service to 37 destinations. In 2006, the airport accommodated 27 million passengers and in 2005 generated approximately $7 billion in total economic impact to the region and $559 million in state and local taxes.

2007 Cruise Season sets sail at Cruiseport Boston

Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that the 2007 cruise season officially begins on Sunday, April 15th with the arrival of the Saga Ruby for an overnight port-of-call. This year’s season runs through December 17th, and so far anticipates 103 ship calls with roughly 250,000 travelers passing through Cruiseport Boston with 15 cruise lines offering an assortment of New England/Canada, Bermuda, Caribbean, and trans-Atlantic itineraries.

New this year to the Port of Boston will be the inaugural visit by Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest Jewel-Class ship the Gem. Carrying 2400 passengers and weighing 93,000 gross tons, she is one of nine brand new cruise ships entering the North American market. Additional new Boston ports-of-call include Norwegian’s Spirit, Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas, and Classic International Cruises’ Athena.

“This cruise season promises to be a busy one with a 20% increase over last year in leisure travelers through Cruiseport Boston,” said Mike Leone, Massport’s Port Director. “This is good news for Boston’s local restaurants, shops, and attractions.”

Last fall, Massport issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) to developers and cruise lines for construction of a new cruise terminal in South Boston.  A modern two terminal/berth facility would complement and enhance the emerging Seaport District, and accommodate the consistent growth of Boston’s cruise industry since the first cruise ship called port in the 1980’s. Several cruise lines have expressed interest in calling Boston year-round.

The Saga Ruby will be berthed at Cruiseport Boston’s Black Falcon Terminal beginning at 7:00pm on April 15th, and will depart at 6:00pm on April 16th. Viewing is prohibited from the pier, therefore the best opportunity to see her is on the Summer Street Bridge over the Reserved Channel in South Boston.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced two senior management appointments at its April regular monthly meeting. The Massport Board approved the appointment of George Hertz as Chief of Staff for CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr.  Hertz served as Massport’s Executive Vice President from 2002 to 2006.
 
The Board also named John Pranckevicius as Director of Administration & Finance.  Pranckevicius served for 12 years as Budget Director for the City of Worcester beginning in 1993 before his promotion to Chief Financial Officer in 2005.

“I am pleased to welcome two experienced professionals to my senior team whose knowledge of public finance and Massport facilities will enable the Authority to deliver its mission in a cost-effective way on behalf of all our customers,” said Kinton. 

“John’s experience as CFO of a city with complex needs and a $530 million budget makes him well suited to handle the fiscal demands of a dynamic agency like Massport whose facilities generate more than $9 billion in economic activity each year,” said Kinton. 

“I know from working with George in the past that his detailed understanding of Massport and its needs, along with his wide-ranging experience in both the public and private sectors, will assist me in making the tough decisions that are needed to ensure Massport continues to operate in a sound business manner.”

During his tenure in Worcester, Pranckevicius introduced on-line financial transactions that increased cash flows by $1.2 million.  He helped improve the City’s financial performance by 67% during four of the last five years, while maintaining Worcester’s investment quality bond ratings with all three rating agencies.  Pranckevicius implemented health insurance reforms that resulted in $38 million in savings for the City.  He was also instrumental in negotiating the $568 million, mixed use CitySquare Project development that stimulated $470 million in private development.   

Hertz has more than 30 years experience in business and government.  He was state budget director in the early 1980s when passage of Proposition 2 ½ forced the state to assume financial responsibility for many services provided by local government.  At Massport, Hertz was instrumental in an Authority-wide reorganization that incorporated private sector business practices into Massport operations by making individual transportation facilities more accountable for profits and losses.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation is accepting job applications for Federal Transportation Security Screeners for the following Massport airports: Hanscom Field in Bedford, MA; Logan Airport (Terminal E) Boston, MA; and Worcester Regional Airport in Worcester, MA. The salary for these positions range from $23,600 to $35,400 depending upon experience plus "locality pay." Federal Benefits are provided including health insurance, life insurance, retirement, paid vacation and sick leave. Candidates may apply on-line at www.tsa.dot.gov or call toll free 1-877-631-JOBS (5627).

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will conduct another job fair for screener positions on Thursday, August 15, 2002 and Friday, 16, 2002 at:

Harborside Hyatt
Boston's Logan International Airport
101 Harborside Drive
Boston, Massachusetts, USA. 02128
Telephone:+1 617 568-1234

Hours
Thursday August 15, 2002 from 7:00am to 7:00pm
Friday     August 16, 2002 from 7:00am to 7:00pm

Project Will Create Local Construction Jobs to Build World-Class Facility

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) today celebrated the launch of construction for its new $400 million, state-of-the-art facility at Boston's Logan International Airport. With the complete redevelopment of Terminal A, passengers on every Delta flight through Boston, as well as those on codeshare flights with Delta's SkyTeam partners, will benefit from unprecedented customer-focused technology and services.

In a ceremony today, Delta Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Leo F. Mullin, along with Massport CEO Craig P. Coy and Delta's Senior Vice President - Airport Customer Service John N. Selvaggio, unveiled a large rendering of the new facility, which will remain on display at the construction site through completion of the project in the first quarter of 2005.

The new Terminal A will be the second airport facility in Delta's system to house all of the airline's flight services - Delta, Delta Shuttle, Delta Express, Delta Connection and international codeshare flights - under one roof. It also will employ time-saving technologies to maximize customer convenience:
A 560,000-square-foot terminal and concourse connected by an underground walkway and moving sidewalks
The latest technology at 64 ticket counters and additional self-service kiosks, maximizing efficient passenger check-in
Roomier gate areas enhanced with gate information display screens
Two Crown Room clubs, and a BusinesseElite passenger lounge, to ensure ample facilities for business travelers
Direct road and parking lot access to/from Terminal A

The customer experience in Terminal A will be further enhanced by the facility's open and airy design. Long expanses of windows and overhead atriums will provide natural lighting in every area, from check-in to the gates, restaurants and shops in the concourse.

"This year marks Delta's 30th year serving the Boston area, and this significant investment in Terminal A's redevelopment reaffirms our commitment to the community and our passengers," said Mullin. "We are proud to offer a world-class facility to an important market and, in the process, contribute to the economic vitality of the region."

Delta has been a long-time supporter of the greater Boston metropolitan area, at the airport and beyond. As the largest carrier in Boston, based on passenger boardings (according to DOT data), Delta serves 24 non-stop markets, offering 103 combined daily departures and international service to Paris and Milan via SkyTeam partners Air France and Alitalia. Delta meets the needs of travelers with regional, domestic and international itineraries.

"The redevelopment of Terminal A is key to modernizing Logan Airport," said Coy. "With new terminals, walkways and roads, we are striving to make our customers' experience the best it can be, the best in the industry."

As the first update to Terminal A since the 1970s, Delta's initiative to develop a new facility supports the Massachusetts Port Authority's (Massport) overall Logan Modernization Program. Delta's current annual economic impact on the Boston area is estimated at $1.7 billion. The development of the terminal will create approximately 750 on-site construction jobs, with an additional 2,000 people employed by suppliers, contractors and consultants.

During redevelopment, Delta, Delta Express, Delta Connection carriers and international codeshare flights will remain in Terminal C. Delta Shuttle operations, including all amenities and services, will continue operating from Terminal B until the new facility is completed. Customers will continue to have access to Delta's Crown Room Club in Terminal C. To enhance the airport experience, Delta customers are encouraged to use virtual check-in options via delta.com, wireless handhelds and self-service kiosks, to name a few. Construction will not affect normal operations.

Delta service in Boston dates back to 1933 when Boston-Maine Airways, which became Northeast Airlines, inaugurated service. Northeast Airlines merged with Delta in 1972. A concerned corporate citizen, Delta has supported the Boston Ballet for 10 years, and is a sponsor of the Boston Red Sox and 2002 World Champion New England Patriots.

Delta Air Lines, the world's second largest carrier in terms of passengers carried and the leading U.S. airline across the Atlantic, offers 5,898 flights each day to 429 destinations in 76 countries on Delta, Delta Express, Delta Shuttle, Delta Connection and Delta's worldwide partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. For more information, please go to www.delta.com.

*information provided by Delta Air Lines.

The Logan Modernization Program is now 80% complete, with nearly every terminal and roadway at Logan either under construction or completed. The "New and Improved" Logan is emerging, with overhead walkways opened and connected to all terminals from the Central Garage; a new Terminal E now visible from the outbound roadway and opening early next year, and the demolition and reconstruction of Terminal A is underway.

The latest Logan Modernization milestone is the opening of the upper level/departure roadway system on August 3, 2002. Logan's roadways are now clearly separated as either arrival (lower level) or departure (upper level) roadways. This two-tiered system will simplify the driving experience through Logan and provide access to more lanes.

Some of the new roadway changes:

A new section of the departure level roadway will open on the outbound road.

The exit from the Central Garage will be relocated. Look for signs directing you to the next exit to the outbound roadway. The Ted Williams Tunnel will now be accessible via the outbound roadway for patrons exiting the garage.

The exit road from Terminal E to the outbound road will shift. Signs will direct you to the new exit road.

Patrons exiting the Hilton will turn right to head north/Sumner Tunnel and turn left to head south to Ted Williams Tunnel via Harborside Drive.

The upper level roadway in front of Terminal C will shift slightly --- closer to the Terminal entrance.

The Satellite Parking Lot at Logan will be renamed Economy Parking to reflect the discounted rates available. New roadway signs will reflect the name change.

The Ted Williams Tunnel is open to the public weekdays 10:00 pm - 5:00 am and on weekends from 10:00 pm on Friday until 5:00 am Monday morning.

The best way to navigate these changes is to know your terminal letter (B, C, D or E) before driving to Logan and whether you would like to head directly to the parking garages or the departures (upper) level or arrivals (lower) level of your terminal. Drive carefully and let the new signs guide you.

Today, Logan Airport is one step closer to providing the citizens of Boston and New England with the efficient and on-time airport they deserve. This runway, as approved by the FAA, will reduce delays by one-quarter slashing almost 90,000 hours of delay a year and giving passengers that most precious commodity: time.

This decision is a testament to a long, thorough and inclusive public process.

Governor Swift, the entire Congressional Delegation, Mayor Menino, local elected officials, business leaders like Dick Egan, Chris Anderson and Paul Guzzi, airline officials and neighborhood residents have all been heard. As a result, todays decision approves the runway, requires the submittal of a plan on demand management and further FAA study of the centerfield taxiway and FAA flight tracks and runway use. In addition, we will continue to work on our innovative regionalization strategy.

The FAA and Massport have listened and the proof is in this decision.

As the new CEO of Massport, I hope that Mayor Menino and the Congressional Delegation will continue to provide guidance as I work to build their trust.

After seven years and more than 100 public meetings with over 3,000 participants we are on track to build a practical solution to Logan's chronic delay problem and help maintain Boston as a world-class city.

A wind restricted runway will cut delays by 80% during northwest winds.

It does this while addressing community perceptions about increasing capacity. We will do everything in our power to ensure that the FAA meet its obligation to enforce that wind restriction.

By working with City Hall, Massport will be a source of clear and accurate information about airport operations. While making it easier for passengers, we must also work to increase understanding and communication with the communities around Logan. This decision maps a path for providing the public with more data about noise, flight tracks, runway use and the day-to-day complexities of running a major international airport.

It is my sincere desire to give concerned residents as much information as possible and offer an inside view of the airport's operations and impacts.

It is important to note that outgoing FAA Administrator Jane Garvey deserves credit for bringing people together and listening to a wide range of opinions. In addition, I'd like to recognize the hard work of the FAA's regional team and that of the Massport staff, including Tom Kinton, Betty Desrosiers, and Flavio Leo.

I must also acknowledge some of my predecessors: Steve Tocco, who got the ball rolling on this project, Peter Blute, who did the hard work at the public meetings, and Virginia Buckingham, who secured the state's environmental approval last year.

Simply put, because of today's decision, one day soon, passengers will spend less time at the airport and have more time for themselves.

After more than two months on display at Logan International Airports Terminal B, the inspiring childrens art exhibition, "Healing the World", will close on August 14 and move to OHare International Airport in Chicago.

Since opening at Terminal B on June 11, thousands of air travelers and airport employees have viewed the heartwarming artworks depicting themes of peace, patriotism, heroism and multiculturalism.

"Weve had a tremendous, positive response to these inspiring pictures created by youngsters," said Craig P. Coy, Massport CEO.

The exhibition was launched at the Miami International Airport in November to offer air travelers a sense of comfort in the aftermath of the attacks of September 11th. Massport invited the exhibition to Boston where public and parochial school students from K to grade 9 in Chelsea, East Boston, South Boston and Winthrop submitted artworks for the exhibit at Logan. Of the more than 400 artworks submitted, 50 were selected for display in Terminal B.

Massport hosted an unveiling reception for the young artists, their teachers and parents.

The exhibition will close in Boston on August 14 for Chicagos OHare International Airport. Joining the traveling exhibition are 11 artworks by local students. The other artworks by local children will be returned to their schools in time for the beginning of the school year.

The public is invited to visit the free exhibit. Take the MBTA Blue Line to the Airport Station, transfer to a courtesy shuttle to Terminal B, American Airlines side, 2nd level.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) along with the City of Boston today announced a two-pronged incentive program that promotes the use of clean fuel vehicles. As part of Massport’s Earth Day celebration at Boston Logan International Airport, Massport unveiled a plan that encourages Logan passengers and Boston taxis to drive to the airport in hybrid, alternative-fuel and alternative-powered vehicles. Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino also announced a new $25,000 grant to encourage the purchase of CleanAir cabs in our City.

For those who choose to drive to the airport, Massport is offering a first in the state preferred parking program to customers driving hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles at the airport’s Central garage, Terminal B garage, Terminal E surface lot and economy parking, starting Tuesday, May 1. In total, more than 100 parking spaces at Logan will be dedicated to clean fuel vehicles. Preferred parking for hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles in the Central garage will be located on Level 6 by the elevator banks and pedestrian walkways for each terminal. Preferred parking at the Terminal B garage will be located on the forth level. Signage and green painted parking stalls will mark the spaces.

Further; working closely with Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the city’s Hackney Division, Massport, on Tuesday, May 1, 2007, will begin offering head-of-line privileges at the airport’s taxi pool for Boston cabs that qualify as a clean fuel vehicle. Head-of-line privileges amount to more time on the road for taxis to collect fares and less time in the taxi queue, which on average can be a 30-60 minute wait before being dispatched to one of Logan’s four terminals. For Boston cab drivers this means an additional two airport trips per twelve hour shift with an average fare of $25.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino announced the CleanAir Cab initiative last September when Boston’s first hybrid taxi hit the streets. Since then a dozen more hybrid cabs have been put into service.  The $25,000 grant announced today will be awarded to ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability to increase participation in the CleanAir Cab program by offsetting extra costs associated with purchasing a new hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle.

“These programs will help accelerate the replacement of ordinary taxis with hybrid-electric or alternative-fuel cabs and improve the air quality in our neighborhoods,” Mayor Menino said. “CleanAir Cabs are not only good for the environment and public health but also for the cab drivers’ bottom line.”

Massport undertook its incentive program to help promote the use of lower emitting vehicles. Eligibility for the parking program is determined by the federal Clean Fleet Guide that currently lists vehicles using CNG, hybrid electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and ethanol 85 power sources.

“We take our commitment to operate our facilities in an environmentally sound manner very seriously,” said Massport CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr. “I’m pleased to join Mayor Menino in the CleanAir Cabs program and happy to extend his plan one step further to promote clean fuel vehicles with our airport customers. Working with the Mayor, we now have the first comprehensive incentive program in Massachusetts promoting hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles. ”

"EPA applauds Massport's effort to promote the use of hybrids and other low-emission vehicles. Protecting our environment is everybody's responsibility, and we are delighted that Massport is doing its part to help reduce emissions and reduce gas consumption," said Robert W. Varney, regional administrator of the New England office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
 
Massport is a national leader in embracing environmental initiatives with the first LEED certified airport terminal in the US; the first ISO 14001 airport, container terminal and bridge in the US; and a number of innovative air quality emission reduction programs.  Logan’s 33 shuttle buses logged their 10-millionth clean air mile recently and currently, thirty-one percent of all passenger and employee trips to Logan are in High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV), this is second only to the San Francisco International Airport for US airport HOV ridership.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) delivered its latest installment in a $9.6 million commitment to the East Boston Foundation, a community organization that funds programs that benefit East Boston, on Monday, August 5.

The $600K check, presented by Massport CEO Craig P. Coy to the Board of Trustees at a Foundation meeting, is earmarked for grants for such diverse programs such as affordable day care, recreation for youths and seniors, athletics, community events and other local activities.

"Logan Airport fuels the local economy and provides jobs for thousands of nearby residents, but it also significantly impacts this and surrounding communities," said Coy. "It is fitting that this mitigation agreement provides an impartial method of funding for programs that improve the quality of life for Massports neighbors."

To date, Massport has made a total of six annual payments of $600K each and three milestone payments of $800K each, totaling $6 million.

So far, recipients of East Boston Foundation grants include: Savio Prep School, East Boston High School, Italia Unita, Little Folks Day Care Center, East Boston Social Centers, East Boston Youth Hockey, Pier Park Sailing Program and ZUMIX.

The East Boston Foundation works under strict governing rules which include: money can only be given to organizations if the whole group benefits; East Boston residents must benefit; the donation must go to business development, open space, sports activities, recreational opportunities for seniors, community events or educational enhancements.

Applicants for grants submit proposals detailing their needs and the benefits to the community. The 12-member board reviews applications and makes grants based on the agreed criteria. Board members are:

• Elvira Palladino, chairperson, appointed by the East Boston Advisory Committee Inc. (PIERPAC)
• Leslie Kirwan, secretary, appointed by Massport
• David Arinella, treasurer, appointed by Presiding Justice of the East Boston District Court
• Mary Catino, appointed by the East Boston Environmental Rights Committee (EBERC)
• Arthur F. Horn, Jr., appointed by Airport Impact Relief Inc. (AIR, Inc.)
• Ronald C. Jordan, appointed by the Senator in the General Court whose district includes East Boston
• Robert Loiacono, appointed by the East Boston Chamber of Commerce
• Gail Miller, appointed by the Friends of Belle Island Marsh (FBIM)
• John V. Parziale, appointed by the Mayor of Boston
  Vincent Schettino, appointed by the Representative in the General Court whose district includes East Boston
• Joseph E. Steffano, Jr., appointed by the District One Boston City Councilor
• Richard C. Lynds, Esq., non-voting member appointed by the Board of Trustees as the Executive Director.

The 2000 Environmental Status and Planning Report (2000 ESPR), EOEA #5484/8696 presents the status of 2000 activity levels, environmental conditions and mitigation initiatives at Laurence G. Hanscom Field for ground transportation; noise; air quality; wetlands; wildlife; water quality; cultural and historical resources; and sustainable development.

This document is comprised of an Executive Summary (approx. 600K in size) and several additional large format exhibits/graphics ranging from 600K-2MB in size. We have provided the exhibits external to the summary in order to make the download time reasonable for our visitors without high speed connections.

The linked reports/information are available in PDF format and can be viewed using Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, see the PDF Help page.

ESPR Executive Summary

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Please be advised that alternating lane closures will take place on the Tobin Bridge lower level starting Tuesday, May 2, 2007 through Thursday May 31, 2007 for the installation of cable and outriggers.
Lower level, 2 lanes closed alternating right to left, Midnight to 5:00 a.m.
Lower level, 1 lane closed, alternating right to left from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
All work is traffic and weather permitting.

This work is in preparation for the continuation of painting on the Tobin Bridge. Painting will occur on the upper and lower levels of the Little Mystic Truss to the toll plaza area as well as along the upper level CANA approach spans in Charlestown. Once the sites are prepared, work will take place through November 2007, at which time the project will end for the winter and begin again in the spring of 2008.

Airlines Adding New European Markets and Seasonal Service to Popular Vacation Destinations

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced the latest airline service changes at Boston Logan International Airport. New European destinations set to begin this month include Madrid, Glasgow, and Knock, Ireland, as well as the return of seasonal service to Rome, Lisbon, Stockholm, and the island of Terceira, located off the coast of the Azores. Boston Logan’s $4.4 billion modernization program, including new terminals, parking facilities, roadways and airport concessions, has transformed the airport into a world-class facility capable of meeting the needs of local travelers and businesses in the 21st Century.

Beginning on May 6, Iberia Airlines will begin offering 5 weekly flights to Madrid, Spain on Airbus A340 aircraft, and on May 25, the airline flyGlobespan will begin 5 weekly flights to Glasgow, Scotland on Boeing 737 aircraft and seasonal service, twice weekly, to Knock, Ireland, and continuing to Glasgow, starting May 29. 

Seasonal service starting in June includes Finnair with 3 weekly flights to Stockholm and SATA service to Lisbon twice a week and Terceira weekly. In July, Alitalia will begin 5 weekly flights to Rome. Seasonal service ending includes flights to Mexico City and Grand Cayman.

“We’re very happy to welcome our new airline partners Iberia and flyGlobespan to Logan and we look forward to working closely with them as they grow their services and provide a quality product for New England travelers,” said Edward C. Freni, Aviation Director at Massport.  “The growth in seasonal service is an indicator that the leisure travel market remains healthy and that the airline industry considers Boston an important city to serve.”

Boston Logan serves as the gateway to the six-state New England region with a population of over 14 million and offers nonstop service to 79 domestic and 37 international destinations. Boston Logan also has more low fare flights than any airport in New England and in 2006 handled nearly 28 million passengers.

Closures to allow for ceiling inspection and for traffic surveillance and control system installation or maintenance by the Mass Turnpike Authority.

Nighttime Highway Closure:
I-90 East in South Boston, leading to the Ted Williams Tunnel.

This will be closed and detoured at night Tuesday, May 8, 2007 and Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning.

Drivers will be detoured to Exit 24B, I-93 North, and should follow I-93 to Exit 23, Government Center, and then follow the posted detour signs via Cross Street to the Callahan Tunnel.

Nighttime Ramp Closure:
I-93 North Exit #20 to I-90 East

The ramp at I-93 North Exit #20 to I-90 East will be closed at night on Tuesday, May 8 2007 and Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 11 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. the next morning.

During those hours drivers destined for Logan Airport should follow I-93 to Exit 23, Government Center, and follow the posted detour signs via Cross Street to the Callahan Tunnel.

Nighttime Ramp Closure:
Ramp from Frontage Road and Albany Street to I-90 East and Logan Airport

Access from Frontage Road and Albany Street to I-90 East and Logan Airport will be closed Tuesday, May 8 2007 and Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning.

Motorists destined for Logan Airport should take the ramp to I-93 North (just north of Broadway) to Exit 23, Government Center, and then follow the posted detour signs via Cross Street to the Callahan Tunnel. Electronic signs and police details will be deployed to help guide motorists.

Nighttime Ramp Closure:
Ramp from South Boston to I-90 East and Logan Airport

Access from South Boston to I-90 East and Logan Airport will be closed at night Tuesday, May 8, 2007 and Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 11:00 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning.

Motorists destined for Logan Airport should follow the posted detour via the South Boston Bypass Road to I-93 North to Exit 23, Government Center, and then follow the posted detour signs via Cross Street to the Callahan Tunnel.

The South Boston Bypass Road is usually a commercial only roadway; However, it will be used as a detour for general traffic only during these posted hours for this ramp closure. Electronic signs and police details will be deployed to help guide motorists.

The next meeting of the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board will be held on Thursday, May 17, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. at Massport's Executive Offices located at the Logan Office Center, One Harborside Drive, East Boston, MA.

Access from South Boston to I-90 East and Logan Airport will be closed at night Monday, May 14, 2007, Thursday, May 17, 2007 and Friday, May 18, 2007 from 11:00 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning.

Motorists destined for Logan Airport should follow the posted detour via the South Boston Bypass Road to Frontage Road northbound to the on-ramp to I-90 East. The South Boston Bypass Road is usually a commercial only roadway. However, it will be used as a detour for general traffic only during these posted hours for this ramp closure.

Electronic signs and police details will be deployed to help guide motorists.

This closure is to allow for ceiling inspection and for traffic surveillance and control system installation or maintenance by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority

Motorists advised of lane closures

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced long term lane closures on the upper and lower level roadways of the Tobin Memorial Bridge beginning May 21, 2007 and ending in November 2007. Lane closures are to allow for painting of the upper and lower level roadways from the Little Mystic Truss to the Toll Plaza Area as well as along the upper level approach spans to the CANA tunnel in Charlestown.

Lane closures include:

Upper Level-Southbound after the Toll Plaza, vehicles merge to center two lanes past Little Mystic Truss.
Lower Level-Northbound after the CANA Tunnel, vehicles merge to two lanes up to the Old Toll Area.  Chelsea exit ramps will remain open.
Work will take place Monday through Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on weekends if necessary, through November 2007, at which time the project will end for the winter and begin again in the spring of 2008. All work is traffic and weather permitting.

This painting project consists of phases two and seven of Massport's nine phase, $43 million, painting project begun in 1992. The on-going painting process is necessary to protect the steel structure from corrosive effects of New England winters and ocean salt and to insure the integrity of the bridge.

Career Opportunities Available in the Aviation Industry  

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced an airport-wide job fair at Boston Logan International Airport on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the United Airlines Hangar.

Hosted by Massport, the job fair is an opportunity for Logan's airlines, airport retail and restaurant concessionaires, airline support and airport support businesses, hotels, rental car companies, and government agencies to showcase the career opportunities available at Boston Logan. Boston Logan serves as the gateway to the six-state New England region with a population of over 14 million and offers nonstop service to 79 domestic and 37 international destinations.

With many airport businesses expressing an interest in the job fair, airport officials are hopeful that the turnout will be strong and that qualified candidates will be matched with potential employers.

"Our goal with the job fair is to get people thinking about the various career opportunities and experiences offered by the aviation transportation industry," said Massport's Director of Aviation Edward C. Freni. "Companies at Logan employ nearly 11,000 people and generate about $19 million a day in direct economic impact to the region."

The job fair will take place at the United Airlines Hangar located at 10 Service Road, Logan International Airport, East Boston, across the street from the MBTA Blue Line Airport Station. Attendees are encouraged to make use of public transportation. Attendees driving to job fair can park at the airport's economy parking lot and should take Route 1A north to the Bennington Street/Route 145 exit and follow the signs to event parking. Attendees are asked not to bring large bags or back packs to the job fair. Please contact Massport's DaNita Davis at 617-568-3900 or ddavis@massport.com with questions or for further information.

Massachusetts Port Authority officials, Senator Edward Kennedy, Senator John Kerry, Governor Deval Patrick, Lt. Governor Tim Murray, and Capt. Wei Jiafu, President and CEO of China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company (COSCO) today commemorated the fifth anniversary of direct service between Asia and the Port of Boston. The ceremony at Nurses' Hall at the Massachusetts State House also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Massport and COSCO to promote continued trade opportunities between New England and China through September 30, 2010.

"This event further cements ties between the Port of Boston and China," said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., Massport's CEO & Executive Director. "New England companies have expanded and added jobs as a result of the increased demand of cargo traffic brought by COSCO and its Asian partners. With China fast becoming Massachusetts' largest trading partner, the opportunities for further growth are considerable."

Cargo activity at Massport's Conley Container Terminal has steadily increased with double-digit growth over the last five years. Since arriving in 2002, COSCO and its Asian partners "K" Line, from Japan, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation, from Taiwan, and Hanjin Shipping, from Korea, witnessed growth in Boston of more than 400%. The service accounts for $20 million in annual revenue to the Port of Boston. COSCO is the world's eighth largest shipping company and has 43 percent of the business at Conley Container Terminal.

"Boston Harbor is back and the Port is bustling with commerce. This historic partnership with COSCO is bringing new vitality to our international trading relationship with China, and we expect continued growth in the years ahead," Senator Kennedy said. "I congratulate COSCO and Massport for their great successes over the past five years, and look forward to working with them for years to come."

"Relationships like the one between Massport and COSCO reflect the importance of free trade," said Senator Kerry. "This makes smart economic sense for our state. I support the continued partnership and I look forward to continuing to work together with both Massport and COSCO in the coming years."

"The China Ocean Shipping Company has served as an important ambassador of trade between the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the fastest growing markets in the world," Governor Patrick said. "Over the last five years, COSCO has more than quadrupled its business with all of New England through the Port of Boston. We see the relationship growing only stronger."

"It is partnerships like this that help grow Boston's economy through increasing trade and creating jobs. Our partnership with COSCO has the Port of Boston thriving," Mayor Menino said. "Working together, we can make Boston a more vibrant, competitive city."

The port of Boston is an economic engine for New England with its vessel and cargo activity supporting 34,000 jobs, and contributing more than $2 billion to the local, regional, and national economies through direct, indirect, and induced impact.

The Port of Boston is the largest port serving the New England region. Top imports include: alcoholic beverages, frozen seafood, footwear and furniture, while top exports include: hides and skins, autos, logs and lumber, frozen seafood, paper and paper ware including waste paper, and metal ware.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) recently sponsored an airport-wide job fair at Boston Logan International Airport. With many airport businesses expressing an interest in participating, airport officials were hopeful that the turnout would be strong and that qualified candidates would be matched with potential employers. Exceeding expectations, nearly 1000 people attended the event from throughout the Boston Metropolitan area.

"Our goal with the job fair is to get people thinking about the various career opportunities and experiences offered by the aviation transportation industry," said Massport's Director of Aviation Edward C. Freni. "Companies at Logan employ nearly 11,000 people and generate about $19 million a day in direct economic impact to the region."

The job fair was an opportunity for Logan's airlines, airport retail and restaurant concessionaires, airline support and airport support businesses, hotels, rental car companies, and government agencies to showcase the career opportunities available at Boston Logan. Boston Logan serves as the gateway to the six-state New England region with a population of over 14 million and offers nonstop service to 79 domestic and 37 international destinations.

Today, Mayor Thomas M. Menino, Congressman Michael Capuano and Massport Chief Executive Officer Craig Coy demonstrated Logan's new internet flight monitoring system, giving area residents direct access to information once available only to airlines and FAA air-traffic controllers. With a simple click of a mouse, airport watchers now can track the airline, aircraft type and altitude of airplanes flying in and out of Logan.

"I applaud Massport's efforts to provide the public with timely information," said Mayor Thomas M. Menino. "This creative technology will assist those who live within Logan's flight paths, enhancing communication between the Port Authority and its neighbors."

"Massport's new internet flight monitoring system will provide Logan's neighbors with detailed and timely information about flight activity. I thank Massport for making this important data so accessible to residents," stated Representative Capuano.

"In my first months here at Massport, I heard over and over that our neighbors want accurate and timely information about Logan and its operations, specifically over- flight information," said Craig Coy, Massport's CEO. "Now they have it. It's just the first step in a major overhaul of Massport's Noise Abatement Programs. I hope this new system will open the door for a more open and honest dialogue between Massport, the airlines, the FAA and nearby airport neighbors."

The program is called Airport Monitor and was developed for Massport by Connecticut-based Megadata. Airport Monitor, a computerized radar image with color-coded arriving, departing and over-flight planes. The information is updated about every four seconds, but because of post-September11th security measures, the site works on a 10-minute delay. Its features include:

• Color-coded flight tracking of aircraft arriving/departing Logan and traveling through the region
• Near real time info (10 min. delay) on aircraft type, altitude and aircraft ID number
• One hour replay function that archives flight track data for 3 months (Additional information about the airline and airport of origin/destination)
• Radar range from 4 miles around Logan to 90 miles

In addition to the new Airport Monitor offering on-line, Massport has also added an on-line noise complaint form as an alternative to the existing Noise Complaint Line (617-561-3333). There are other enhancements to the site including information on how Logan's airfield works and a simplified glossary of technical terminology associated with noise monitoring.

To further enhance community involvement and understanding of Airport Monitor, Massport has established a Massport Website Technical Working Group of residents who have shown a particular interest in this technology and represent a cross-section of greater Boston area neighborhoods and community groups. The working group has been created by Massport to assist in the development of additional enhancements to Airport Monitor and to gather residents' input on information sharing on noise via the web.

"I think Airport Monitor is a terrific educational tool, for concerned residents, airport watchers and for children," added Coy. "It is my hope that teachers in schools around Logan can incorporate the site in discussions about technology and how technology advances information gathering and sharing."

Airport Monitor will go live on Monday, August 19th. To try out Airport Monitor click here. . The home page ticker will also link you directly to the site. In addition, area residents who do not have web access and are interested in viewing the site should go to their local libraries. Most libraries have computers available with internet access.

Passengers seeking arrival and departure times and/or gate information for specific flights should continue to use Massport's Flight Tracker page.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced a pilot program to screen airport employees at Boston Logan International Airport. The 30-day pilot will determine the feasibility of adopting 100% employee screening and will be conducted in conjunction with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The program will evaluate the practicability of implementing various procedures, equipment and resources necessary to implement such an extensive program at Boston Logan.

"Massport's primary responsibility is to protect the safety and security of our critical infrastructure and all who use it, and this pilot program is one more component to a multi-layered approach to security at Boston Logan," said Massport's Director of Aviation Edward C. Freni. "We expect that most airport employees will continue to be screened through the regular passenger screening checkpoint but for those employees not bound for the terminal area, but headed for other secure areas, there will be special employee checkpoints at which the TSA will conduct employee security screening."

Boston Logan's program to screen employees complements TSA's efforts to bolster employee screening through a risk-based approach that includes behavioral recognition, employee training, targeted physical inspection and biometric control.

"It is only by challenging ourselves and working closely with our partners in state and federal law enforcement that we can strengthen and improve our overall security program," said Massport's Director of Corporate Security Dennis Treece. "Employee screening is an important component of an airports security plan and we are hopeful that the findings of this pilot program will help inform policy makers and lead to a national plan."

Boston Logan serves as the gateway to the six-state New England region with a population of over 14 million and offers nonstop service to 79 domestic and 37 international destinations. Boston Logan also has more low fare flights than any airport in New England and in 2006 handled nearly 28 million passengers.

The Massachusetts Port Authority has answered the call from ZUMIX 's director Madeleine Steczynski, who needed technical assistance to upgrade the non-profit's computer network. Faced with an antiquated computer system that wouldn't keep pace with the organization's needs, Steczynski went looking for help. Massport responded by volunteering the services of its Information Services Department to evaluate and reconfigure ZUMIX'S s computer system at their Maverick Street offices.

"Massport is committed to being a helpful neighbor," said Craig P. Coy, Massport CEO. "By working together, we become better neighbors and appreciate each other's mission."

Since mid-July, Massport's informational services team of Jesus Cabello, David Lutkins and John Backstrom, spend a few hours a week at ZUMIX.
To date, Massport's specialists have built a new server, reconfigured the network to handle separate business and creative program file systems. They've built a more efficient system which will automatically create backup files, and created a routing system so each computer has access to the internet. In addition, John Backstrom is reconfiguring the desktop personal computers, wiping out viruses and clearing out program debris.

"We had to learn the system and about ZUMIX's needs," said Jesus Cabello, of Massport's Information Services Department. "Every business is different. Massport 's a multi-system network that connects the airport, seaport, bridge and other facilities, but we don't do music. Working with ZUMIX is a challenge."

Founded in 1991, ZUMIX's mission is to involve and empower racially and ethnically diverse, low-income, at-risk youth in the arts. ZUMIX offers music and related arts programs for young people to develop skills in writing, communication, music and technical training in audio and computer technologies. Youngsters in ZUMIX write music and perform their works at community events.

Over the years, ZUMIX had outgrown its computer system. The process for upgrading the system was technically challenging and potentially costly for ZUMIX.

"If our system crashed, we'd lose 11 years of files. To hire a consultant would cost thousands of dollars that we couldn't afford. I didn't know what new equipment we really needed," said Steczynski.

She asked four East Boston organizations large enough to have in-house informational services specialists for technical help.

"I still can't believe it, I feel like I won the lottery," said Steczynski. "Massport's help is setting a foundation to leverage additional funding. Thank you, Massport"

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board today formally approved a $146 million budget for the construction necessary for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to scan all checked luggage at Logan International Airport. Massport is leading the nation with an aggressive program to expand and enhance baggage handling rooms in 15 separate areas of the airport to house the TSA's new screening equipment and personnel.

This budget was approved at a special board meeting called so that the project could continue its accelerated pace and seven day-a-week work schedule. In June, when Logan became the first major airport in the nation to have an inline 100% bag screening plan approved, the board adopted a preliminary budget of $106 million based on a conceptual design and cost estimates. The initial budget allowed the project to go forward immediately without waiting for more exact estimates and figures that would have delayed construction.

"I met today with Massport's leadership to be briefed on the outstanding plan they have endorsed to achieve the TSA's 100% bag screening requirements by December 31," said Michael P. Jackson, Deputy Secretary of Transportation, U.S. Department of Transportation. "I am enormously grateful for the energy and drive Massport has shown in working with the federal government. They are real national leaders and superb partners in meeting our ambitious goals for improving aviation security."

The TSA is under a Congressional mandate to implement 100% baggage screening at all of the nation's airports by December 31st, 2002. Massport continues to seek federal reimbursement from the TSA or the FAA for its trail blazing effort in making air travel more secure.

"I am pleased that Massport has reaffirmed its commitment to advance the construction of the 100% hold baggage screening program and working aggressively to meet the federal deadline at Logan," said George Naccara, TSA Federal Security Director for Logan International Airport. "The key to our success is a strong partnership and I will advocate for federal reimbursement to support the Logan program."

Since construction began in July, almost all of the pile driving work has been completed and the authority is moving forward with building the foundations for the new scanning areas. Massport developed Logan's 100% bag screening program in conjunction with the TSA and an internationally recognized design and construction team hired in March 2002. The luggage screening plan calls for an inline system built in enhanced and expanded baggage handling rooms throughout the airport. This design allows the TSA to install and operate the explosive detection system without decreasing the public space available to passengers in the airport terminals. The project provides a permanent solution integrated with airline and airport operations and avoids any temporary or makeshift design or procedures to achieve 100% checked luggage screening.

"What we are doing has never been done before in this amount of time. While I can't guarantee that the deadline will be met, I can guarantee that Logan will continue to lead the country with an arsenal of aggressive security initiatives," said Massport CEO Craig P. Coy. "Our goal is to construct a system for the TSA that offers the best security and delivers the highest quality customer service. Being in the lead, we are paying a premium, but we are setting an example for the whole nation."

During a peak hour, the airlines at Logan handle up to 5,000 pieces of luggage. As designed, the inline 100% bag screening system will accommodate present and future capacity.

In preparation for new federal guidelines and requirements, Massport hosted a two-day infrastructure security seminar in January 2002 with 100 participants from nearly 20 U.S. airports, the FAA, and several construction and security firms. The seminar focused on incorporating federally mandated security initiatives in the design and construction of existing and new airport facilities.

The next meeting of the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board will be held on Thursday, July 19, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. at Massport's Executive Offices located at the Logan Office Center, One Harborside Drive, East Boston, MA.

Economic impact estimated at more than $15 Million during the month

The cruise calendar at Massports Black Falcon Cruise Terminal has a line up of 29 cruise ship calls for the month of September. As many as four ships will tie up at the dock on Sunday, September 15: Norwegian Majesty, Brilliance of the Seas, Carnival Triumph, and Clipper Adventurer. On September 3 and 4, World of ResidenSea---the first condo cruise ship comes to Boston.

"Boston continues to attract premier cruises and helping to boost our regional economy. We estimate more than $15 million just for September," said Craig P. Coy, Massport CEO.

The month starts with the Norwegian Majesty continuing her weekly cruises to Bermuda.

On September 3, World of ResidenSea, the worlds first condo cruise ship arrives. The vessel has 110 spacious and elegantly decorated apartments which can be purchased for $2.25 to 7.5 million each. When the owners are not onboard, some of the condos are available for rent beginning at $2,100 per night with a five-day minimum. There are also 88 studio guest suites for high-end cruise passengers. The ship boasts two swimming pools, a full-size tennis course, world-renowned beauty salon, Clinquie LaPraire, and tony House of Graff Jewellers.

The ships worldwide itinerary coincides with major international events, taking condo owners and cruise passengers to the Cannes Film Festival, the Grand Prix of Monaco and the British Open in Scotland.

On Sept. 15, Royal Caribbeans Brilliance of the Seas, a brand new ship makes Boston her first port of entry in the United States after a trans-Atlantic cruise from Harwich, England.

Brilliance is 962 feet long with a 28 foot draft and has 12 passenger decks. The ship has a capacity of 2,112 passengers and carries 848 crew. She will make five cruise embarkations from Boston. On September 15, Brilliance will have a seven-nights roundtrip cruise from Boston through New England and Canadian Maritime waters. On September 22, Oct 1, 12, and 22, Brilliance of the Seas will increase its itenerary to 10-nights roundtrip cruises, adding Quebec City, Canada.

In the inaugural presentation of the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Office of Diversity "Community Outreach Scholarship" program, three Boston Public School graduating seniors today were awarded scholarships at a presentation at the Massport Board Room.

The program, which was started this year, is open to all seniors graduating from public high schools in the City of Boston. Applicants must have an interest and desire in pursuing a degree that could be used in a career in transportation industries. Areas of study may include: Aviation, Business Administration, Accounting, Architecture, Engineering, Finance and Human Resources.

This year's winners are Cordelia Sabrina Antoine, from Fenway High School; Joseph Bain, from Boston Collegiate Charter School; and Charles Matthews, from the William McKinley South End Academy.

"Massport is proud to be able to support some of Boston's best and brightest young men and women as they begin their college careers," said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., CEO and Executive Director of Massport. "That these fine young men and women have an interest in transportation is simply icing on the cake."

"Diversity is important in every profession and we are thrilled to help foster diversity in transportation industries," said Sandra C. Buford, Ph.D, Director of Diversity at Massport. "We look forward to continuing the Diversity Community Outreach Scholarship program in the years to come."

Antoine, a resident of Dorchester, will attend Smith College in Northampton, Mass. She was the 2007 Valedictorian of Fenway High School, was president of the student government her senior year, and is interested in business administration.

Bain, who lives in South Boston, will attend the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay. He attended summer programs at Merrimack College where he studied engineering and Daniel Webster College where he studied aviation.

Matthews, a resident of Dorchester, will attend Wentworth Institute of Technology in the fall and plans to study computer engineering. He graduated at the top of his class and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is a Cadet Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program.

Conley Terminal is still experiencing some labor issues, but is processing any and all containers that are cleared for delivery as posted in the Gate and Yard System accessed via the website or by telephone (as listed below). Locations for some containers recently arrived have not been entered into the system, and therefore are not available for delivery.

To avoid delays, please determine the availability of your container(s) prior to arriving at the terminal. If the container number is "Not Available" via the automated system, it will not be processed at the gate. Massport is doing everything possible to clear all containers now in the yard. We ask your patience to allow this backlog to be cleared.

To Check on the Status of Your Container(s):
If you have not received a specific password, you may access this system via the internet by going to the website maritime.massport.com (Version 5.5 or higher Microsoft Internet Explorer required). At the login screen, enter "1100" in the Trucker ID box (don't enter a user name or password). Access is also available by phone at (617) 464-7101. When prompted say or enter "1100".

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that construction of a new electronic gate for Maverick Street started July 23. The gate, which is a part of Massport's multimillion dollar Airport Edge Buffer Program, will keep airport-related traffic off area streets, and furthers Massport's commitment to East Boston. During the construction, residents should be prepared for traffic changes and delays, which will last several weeks. Once construction work is complete, electronic work will begin on the gate itself.

The Airport Edge Buffer Program is an effort by the Authority to provide landscaped buffer amenities for its neighbors living near Boston Logan International Airport. The edge buffers, which include the Navy Fuel Pier, the Bayswater Embankment, and the perimeter of Logan's Southwest Service Area, are part of a 1997 Community Mitigation Agreement. Under the agreement, Massport committed to spending nearly $15 million for the design, construction, and maintenance of the airport edge buffers.

"Massport will not forget its commitment to its neighbors and we will continue to work diligently to mitigate the impacts a busy airport has on those who live closest to it," said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., CEO & Executive Director of Massport. "The Airport Edge Buffer Program returns open space to the East Boston community."

The Maverick Street gate construction work is part of the perimeter of the Southwest Service Area. Most of the work will occur at the corner of Maverick Street and Tomahawk Drive.

Once the $617,000 gate project is complete, only East Boston residents will be able to access the airport using Maverick Street. East Boston residents owning a non-commercial, personal passenger vehicle will be granted access through the new electronic gate on a 24/7 basis by using a smart key card access system. The new electronic Maverick Street gate will provide East Boston residents with quick access to the Ted Williams Tunnel, as well as reduce congestion on airport roadways and area East Boston streets.

Once the system is finalized, Massport's Office of Government and Community Affairs will begin the process to educate and issue cards to residents. Earlier this year, East Boston residents began enjoying the newly constructed Airport Edge Buffer located at the former Navy Fuel Pier on Marginal Street. Massport worked closely with the residents of Jeffries Point over a two year period on issues related to environmental remediation, shoreline stabilization, and landscaping.

East Boston residents with questions or concerns should contact Anthony Guerriero in Massport's Office of Government and Community Affairs at 617-568-3711.

Saturday, September 7, 2002 through Sunday, September 8, 2002

To accommodate the installation of support beams in the area of Airport Station by the Central Artery Project's contractor, MBTA bus replacement service will be necessary between Wonderland and Maverick Stations throughout the weekend of September 7 - 8, 2002.

Commencing at the start of service on Saturday, September 7th and continuing through the end of service on Sunday, September 8th. Wonderland, Revere Beach, Beachmont, Suffolk Downs, Orient Heights, Wood Island, and Airport Stations WILL BE CLOSED. Blue Line service will be replaced with shuttle bus service. Shuttle buses will stop at each station, excluding Airport Station, and will operate in accordance with regular train schedules.

Shuttle buses are free; standard fares will be collected at Maverick, Aquarium, State, and Government Center Stations.

LOGAN AIRPORT TRAVELERS NOTE: MASSPORT will operate shuttle buses between Maverick Station and Logan Airport terminals.

Normal Blue Line service will resume at the start of service on Monday, September 9th.

The MBTA thanks you for your cooperation and patience.
Please allow an additional 15 - 20 minutes to your commuting time.

For more information on T schedules and fares, please call the Customer Service Center at (617) 222-3200 or Hearing Impaired TDD (617) 222-5146 or visit us on the world wide web at www.mbta.com

Beginning Sunday night, August 5, 2007, the Sumner Tunnel will be closed at night Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 pm to 5:00 am for the remainder of the summer to make programmed ceiling repairs to the tunnel.

Each night one lane will be closed at 9:30 pm prior to the full closures. An occasional one-lane daytime closure may need to take place in the tunnel Monday through Thursday. Motorists traveling from Route 1A, Logan Airport and East Boston should use the Ted Williams Tunnel as an alternate route.

At 8:46 a.m. on September 11 Logan Airport stood silent to mark the moment a year ago when our world was changed forever. We remember the victims of that horrible day, grieve with the families, and honor the heroes whose courage and self-sacrifice still astound and inspire us.

The stillness on Logan's airfield recalled that painful silence last September when, for the first time in our nations history, America's skies were closed. In a quiet moment of reflection we paid our respects. But our lasting tribute to those who died on September 11 will not be complete until this airport, which chance has forever linked with a day of unthinkable human loss, can be remembered instead for the success we have achieved in moving this country forward.

That effort began a year ago. The silence in the skies on September 11 contrasted sharply with the din of activity on the ground as all public agencies worked determinedly to protect its passengers once it was understood America was under attack.

Thousands who still remained in Logan's terminals were evacuated quickly and safely. Steps were undertaken to keep others away.

Stranded travelers from around the world were housed and fed, or matched with generous people throughout Massachusetts who called us to volunteer their homes.

Cruise passengers whose ships were diverted to Boston from other ports were brought on shore and accommodated.

But most of all, the families of those who died on board the two flights that left this airport were cared for and consoled.

In this moment of intense pain and sorrow there was a measure of normalcy in work. As one member of Massport's CARE team put it, looking back to the experience of the volunteers in Logan's Family Assistance Center: "Mending life's shattered pieces at our own Ground Zero helped all of us cope with the enormity of the event."

In the end, the best way for Massport to remember the enormity of the events of September 11 is to never forget that our first responsibility is to you, our fellow citizens, and to your safety and security, and to those who you love.

That commitment will be evident in everything that we do. That is our pledge to you.

Even before I arrived last April, Logan was already among the first airports in the country to push Congress for revolutionary changes in transportation security.

Logan had also been singled out by the federal government to help develop security measures for the rest of the nation. It had opened its terminals as a test site for the latest in security technology, and was retraining staff in counter-terrorism strategies.

Adversity can produce significant accomplishments if an organization has the courage, the commitment and strength of character to seize the opportunity. From everything I have seen of the men and women of Massport, I am confident that this organization does.

One of the first things we did when I came to Massport was complete our comprehensive plan for rebuilding our airport to screen all checked baggage. Then, while others were working hard to postpone the deadline for mandatory baggage screening, we worked even harder to be the first airport in the country to get federal endorsement for our screening plan.

And today, Massport is working closely with the new federal Transportation Security Administration, and with the full support of this state's political leadership, to make Logan Airport a national model for airport security.

We have committed up to $146 million to rebuild our terminals and our baggage facilities for screening all checked baggage. Our contractors and staff are working around the clock to complete the project by the Congressional deadline at the end of this year.

Much has been done, but it is only the beginning. This determination by all of us at Massport to be a national leader for transportation security was forged the moment a group of evil men stole two airplanes from this airport and used them to kill thousands of innocent people.

When you are touched by history you wear its scars. We were changed by September 11. We take it personally. We respect its lessons. And we make this pledge to you, that we will devote all our vigilance, all our commitment, all the resources and talent at our disposal to make Logan Airport a world-class facility in every respect.

The Tobin Bridge Beacon Street off-ramp will close Monday, September 23, at 7 a.m., as the painting project resumes on the bridge. This $2.7 million undertaking is Phase V of a nine-phase paint project.

The ramp will close in order to treat the structural steel on the underside of the upper level. The work includes abrasive cleaning, containment, air quality monitoring and painting.

Beginning Monday at 7 a.m. A traffic and safety management program includes:

• Reflector drum barrels
• Traffic will be reduced to two lanes.
• A protective vehicle will be at the top of the Beacon Street off ramp.
• Beyond Beacon Street traffic resumes three lanes.
• An electronic sign reading: "Beacon St. off-ramp closed", will be in place at the old toll plaza, lower deck.
• State Police will be on site.

The work is expected to take up to four weeks. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. No noisy work will begin before 7:30 a.m. or continue after 5 p.m.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that effective Tuesday, September 24, American Eagle will add daily regional jet service from Logan to LaGuardia. American Eagle will also add one additional flight to Washington/Reagan on October 6. This brings the total number of daily American Eagle flights at Logan to 48. The flights will be operated with Embraer (37 and 44 seat) regional jets.

The news comes as passenger and flight volumes at Logan continue to rebound. Logan served over 24 million passengers in 2001 and handled 455,000 flights. The Boston/New York, Boston/Washington markets are the most popular routes at Logan.

American Eagle already provides service between Logan and four other New York area airports: JFK, Newark, White Plains and Islip. American Eagle serves 10 other destinations from LaGuardia, including Detroit, Cleveland, and Columbus, Ohio.

The Massachusetts Port Authority announced today that Virgin Atlantic will add seasonal service (May 8, 2003 - October 12, 2003) to London Gatwick International Airport from Terminal E. The 747 service will arrive Boston at 2:25P.M. and depart at 9:00P.M.

Currently, Virgin Atlantic operates daily 747 service to Heathrow. The flight arrives at 4:55P.M. and departs at 7:25P.M.

The news comes as passenger and flight volumes continue to rebound at Logan. Effective Tuesday, September 24th, America Eagle begins 10 daily roundtrip flights to New York's LaGuardia Airport.

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that Logan International Airport will become the first airport in the country to install the iA-thenticate platform produced by Imaging Automation. The system will be used as part of the security screening process for airport employees. The iA-thenticate platform performs multiple security checks within seconds to determine whether or not a document is authentic, if it is expired, if it has been tampered with, or if the photo or text match any government watch lists of criminals or terrorists.

"Authenticating the documents people present prior to badges being issued will introduce an additional level of security in the hiring process and essentially make the airport more secure," said Tom Kinton, Director of Aviation.

Anyone applying to work at Logan Airport will be asked to present two valid forms of identification (driver's license, passport, visa or green card) which will be authenticated by the new system. The screening will be conducted by the airport Aerodrome Office in conjunction with the Massachusetts State Police.

The Imaging Automation technology is used by many countries around the world for border security. Massport selected the Imaging Automation technology after a five month test period at Logan. During the test period, the system consistently detected falsified documents that were not detectable with visual inspection without adding any delay.

Massport has participated in the testing of other new technologies, including facial recognition and handheld computers capable of running criminal background checks. Massport is providing technology companies with a live test site for their products at Logan. The ultimate goal is to help Massport and the TSA identify which security technologies show potential in a real airport environment.

The iA-thenticate platform is the first technology system tested at Logan that Massport has purchased.

Massport is also leading the nation in the development of a 100% in-line baggage screening system. The TSA approved Massport's plan for Logan in June and construction began in July and is moving forward on a aggressive seven day a week schedule to meet the December 31st federal baggage screening deadline.