MARTA gets $685k for security improvements [UPDATE]
MARTA will receive $685,980 for security officers and equipment through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) Transit Security Grant Program.
“Securing our mass transit systems requires well-trained personnel on the ground to protect against those who seek to cause harm,” Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano said Wednesday. “This Recovery Act money will create critical law enforcement jobs that will help our nation prevent terrorist attacks.”
Fifteen transit agencies across the country will use $78 million to hire 240 new law enforcement officers, hire anti-terrorism personnel, purchase anti-terrorism equipment, and obtain and train explosive detection canines.
UPDATE: The AJC Thursday has this:
“The award will pay for two new bomb detecting dog teams for three years, and bomb detection equipment,” said MARTA spokeswoman Cara Hodgson.