The Port of Baltimore continues to solidify its reputation as one of the nation’s safest and most secure ports after receiving a top annual security assessment from the U.S. Coast Guard for the 17th consecutive year.

The assessment applies to the Maryland Port Administration (MPA)-managed public terminals of the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, including Dundalk, Seagirt, North Locust Point, South Locust Point, Fairfield, Masonville, and the cruise passenger terminal.

The Coast Guard’s comprehensive review included inspections focused on cyber and physical security requirements, along with an extensive evaluation of the Port’s facility security plans. The achievement comes as the Port continues its recovery and rebuilding efforts following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse while maintaining full-scale operations.

“The Maryland Department of Transportation is Serious About Safety, and the Port of Baltimore is a national leader on worker safety and cargo security,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Katie Thomson. “I commend MPA Executive Director Jonathan Daniels and his team for another outstanding security review.”

Over the past several years, the Maryland Port Administration has strengthened security across its public terminals through major infrastructure and technology investments. Improvements include high-mast lighting, reinforced fencing and gate systems, enhanced access control measures, expanded closed-circuit camera systems, and upgraded cybersecurity protections.

MPA Executive Director Jonathan Daniels emphasized the importance of collaboration in maintaining the Port’s security posture.

“It’s no secret that ports are often mentioned as significant targets for terrorism or cyberattacks,” Daniels said. “We take a comprehensive, team-approach to preventing those types of incidents through our MPA security, information technology, and operations departments, along with our partners, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police and Allied Universal.”

The Port’s continued focus on safety and security also supports its growing economic impact. In 2025, the Port of Baltimore handled approximately 50 million tons of cargo, marking its second-best year ever. The Port also set new records for shipping container volume at the Seagirt Marine Terminal and for the number of ship calls into its terminals.

Nationally, Baltimore ranked first among U.S. ports for roll on/roll off farm and construction equipment as well as imported forest products. The Port also ranked second for autos, imported gypsum, salt, sugar, and exported coal.

Overall, the Port ranked 10th in the nation for foreign cargo value and 11th for total tonnage. Economic activity generated by the Port supports more than 20,300 direct jobs and nearly 273,000 jobs connected to port operations throughout Maryland.

As global supply chains continue to face evolving threats and cybersecurity concerns, the Port of Baltimore’s latest recognition underscores the critical role security plays in protecting commerce, workers, and regional economic stability.