GTSI wins award to bolster security at Oakland port

GTSI Corp. will strengthen security at California’s Oakland port facilities under a contract worth $7 million.

The award from the Port of Oakland’s Commissioners calls for GTSI to upgrade the port’s existing security and also install a fiber-optic communications system.

GTSI will work with port officials throughout next year to enhance perimeter security and install a robust communications network that will improve protection of port workers, local residents and container cargo entering the port, said Scott Friedlander, GTSI president and chief operating officer.

Oakland has operated a public harbor since its incorporation in 1852 and has operated an airport in conjunction with the harbor since 1927, when the Port of Oakland was established as an independent department of the city of Oakland.

The work is on target to be completed by April 2010, company officials said.