Logan Eyes New Security System

BOSTON -- A new security system is in the works for the outer perimeter of Logan International Airport.

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Experts Describe System

NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu reported that the system involves dozens of cameras around the airport's rim that look outward to detect any unnatural movements that may signal a terror attack.

Massport has made no final decisions. The agency is merely pilot testing the new system.

It's a new technology used in less than 12 other transportation venues around the country -- like San Diego's port. It is a software system married to cameras that can detect unnatural movements.

"Unlike passive video, where video is simply captured on tape for later prosecution, this gives Logan personnel the ability to intercept them before events happen," VistaScape Security spokesman Glenn McGonnigle said.

Logan has 6.5 miles of beach perimeter. The new technology claims to see through rain, smoke, fog and clouds. It is a system that never sleeps, serving as a virtual fence.

"The advanced algorithms in the software detect movement in the field of view of the camera and classify that as a type of object that it is a person's car, a person swimming, a boat or a truck and give that information back to a central command center where it is displayed," McGonnigle said.

While 9-11 could not have been prevented by the system, the federal government is mandating a secured perimeter at all airports. Security officials in the field would carry PDAs that give them instant information on a potential intruder's location.

"In this case we are looking for perimeter security, around the water so we want to make sure that we have the ability to see what is coming, see what is going," Massport Chief Executive Officer Craig Coy said.

Events in Saudi Arabia only emphasize the importance of an early warning system.

"Terrorism is not over. We cannot be complacent and relax our guard," Coy said.

Massport has tested several products and will be accepting bids within the next few months. Coy said that he hopes to have a new system in place by the end of the year.