N.Y.-N.J. Port Authority begins tests of airport-like X-ray scanners at rail stations

The Rail Security Pilot Project is starting officially tomorrow. Until March 1, passengers entering the Exchange Place PATH station will be chosen at random and screened through metal detectors and bags will be screened through X-ray machines. There will be two checkpoints for the eight-turnstile station. The project is a partnership of DHS and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The purpose of the pilot project is to evaluate the effectiveness of explosive detection equipment to protect from terrorist bombings similar to what occurred in London in July of last year and in Madrid in March 2004. Fifty-two were killed and more than 700 people were injured in the London bombing, and 191 people were killed and 1,460 wounded in Madrid.

The nearly $500,000 program is designed to help improve rail security across the United States as information will be gathered to determine how the equipment will work and the effect upon commuters. Last week, officials from DHS, the Port Authority, and the technology companies gave a demonstration of the security equipment and discussed the new security project. An estimated 15,000 people enter the Exchange Place station daily, with 4,000 passengers using the station hourly during the rush hour peak.

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