Security zone set around LNG basin in Port of Freeport, TX

Port of Freeport, TX

Nearly a year after it first proposed it, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued a final rule, effective on April 9, that creates a permanent security zone in the Freeport Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) Basin within the Port of Freeport, TX.

“By limiting access to this area the Coast Guard reduces potential methods of attack on vessels, waterfront facilities, and adjacent population centers within the zones,” said the Coast Guard in its final rule, which was published in the Federal Register on March 10.

Entry into the security zone is prohibited, except to vessels that have received express permission from the Captain of the Port of Houston-Galveston.

The Coast Guard issued its proposed rule establishing this security zone in a Federal Register notice on April 30, 2009, which invited public comments. No comments were received. Accordingly, the Coast Guard says it will implement the rule as proposed, without any changes.

Further information is available from Lieutenant Commander Kevin Ivey, of the Marine Safety Unit Galveston, at 409-978-2704 or Kevin.L.Ivey@uscg.mil.