Site security to be increased at ground zero in New York

This year sees the tenth anniversary of the September 11^th tragedy which saw the World Trade Centre destroyed as part of a terrorist attack. As a display of solidarity and strength, Ground Zero has become an iconic memorial site dedicated to the thousands who died during the attacks. However, despite the positivity which has come to be associated with the Ground Zero site where a memorial garden and mosque is being built to be opened this autumn, New York authorities are increasing construction site security as they believe the site may be a tempting target for terrorists. Over 220 officers have been reassigned to Ground Zero including a dozen police horses and this force will eventually grow to 670.

Thousands of people are predicted to visit the site after it opens so site security processes such as airport style screenings for hidden weapons in clothing or luggage will be an important tool in preventing a further attack. Other construction site security systems such as site CCTV are already in place while the memorial is being constructed. Some of the construction security systems such as the CCTV will remain after the memorial is opened so that security officers can keep a watchful eye on all visitors to the site. Other security measures will combine architectural innovation along with high tech access control solutions and other gadgets as well as a security presence provided by the New York Police Department, the Port Authority of New York, New Jersey Police and private security firms to make the site completely secure.

The security plans have been constructed and implemented by James Kallstrom, former top counterterrorism adviser to former Governor George Pataki, where he put together an ambitious security plan including elements such as screening every car, truck and other vehicle for radioactive materials as they enter lower Manhattan to prevent the use of a dirty bomb.

The site has been identified as a target due to the symbolism it holds to many American citizens of their country’s resolve to rise out of the ashes of the disastrous events of ten years ago to rebuild and prosper once again. New York Police officials are keen to reassure the public and media that the site isn’t the target of any known plot but is considered a potential target worthy of increased surveillance and security.

Developers have debated the best way to police the site and memorial as authorities do not want to impose such tight site security as to make it inhospitable to tourists, workers and other visitors with an overbearing security presence or arduous security processes. The hope is that the right balance will be achieved prior to opening but there may be some adjustment required depending on the assumed threat level and the success of the memorial site.

If you are interested in improving your building site security or want to find out more about the various construction security services available then contact Permanex Security who will be happy to provide you with any information you require about site security such as scaffold alarms. Visit http://www.permanex-security.co.uk/ or call 0845 069 5555 where their friendly customer service team are waiting to assist you.

About us:  A trusted company since 1989, the Permanex Group leads the way in construction security services, site security and scaffold alarms right across the United Kingdom.

Editor’s note:  Permanex Security is represented by Search Engine Marketing agency TRON Media. This Press Release was written by Jo-Anne Keyte.  Please direct all press queries to Jo-Anne Keyte email: jo@tronmedia.co.uk or call: 02031670969