Port Of Catoosa Director Says His Port Is Secure

Sunday, January 7th 2007, 5:36 pm

By: News On 6

Three people are arrested after a security scare at the Port of Miami. Security concerns in Florida made us question security at the Tulsa Port of Catoosa. The 2,000-acre Port of Catoosa is the largest inland ice-free port in the entire country. News on 6 reporter Chris Wright spoke with the director of the port on Sunday, Bob Portiss says his port is safe and is prepared for situation like the one that happened in Miami.

Portiss was disheartened by the incident in Miami, he says it shows that ports across the country, including his, are capable of dealing with all sorts of threats.

As the director of such a large port, security is always on the forefront of Portiss' mind.

"We are much more sensitive to these kind of issues, much more alert. I think we think about these kind of situations that might occur day in and day out," Port Director Bob Portiss said.

Portiss says communication is a crucial part of security, and asserts that the Port of Catoosa has made drastic improvements in that area over the past five years. The port is now part of a safety security council made up of local, state and federal agencies. Portiss says the council can respond immediately if there is a problem in Catoosa.

"In the event that something would occur, we are able to connect with them almost instantaneously," Portiss said.

The three men in Miami, Florida tried to slip past a security checkpoint in a cargo truck. Portiss believes if anyone attempted a similar stunt in Catoosa, they would have a difficult time getting past his security. There is only entrance into the port, and only pre-approved trucks are allowed in.

"A truck may not enter the port. It will be rejected, will be refused admittance unless it has been authorized in advance," said Portiss.

While the incident in Florida makes him nervous, he says it also an encouraging sign that security systems are detecting the threats they are supposed to detect.

"The systems, not only we have in place not only at our port, but ports across the country are working," Portiss said.

Portiss also tells us that a security drill was conducted at the Port of Catoosa in the past year, and everyone passed with flying colors.