Volpe assists many federal, state, and local government agencies in enhancing their security by providing a full suite of consulting services that include the following:

• Conducting security assessments and providing recommendations for improvement.
• Designing security systems and modules that enhance an agency’s security posture.
• Deploying security systems by providing the labor and equipment needed for installation, configuration, and maintenance.

The Challenge

The design, deployment, and assessment of security systems is not a cookie-cutter process. Each agency has different requirements for detecting anomalies and monitoring its facilities and equipment. The needs and priorities of each agency must be taken into account in order to produce an integrated system that supports its mission.

The Solution

Using our extensive experience in specialized security systems and project management, Volpe develops and deploys state-of-the-art systems that support the missions of our customers. Volpe uses government employees whenever possible to minimize implementation costs and ensure that sponsoring agencies can work directly with the implementation team. Volpe also assembles and manages teams of highly skilled contractors for implementation of large-scale systems.

Below are examples of the support that Volpe has provided:

Security System Upgrade for the U.S. Capitol Complex

Under an Interagency Agreement with the U.S. Capitol Police, Volpe provided a comprehensive, integrated upgrade of the physical security systems at the Capitol that included access control, intrusion detection, and video surveillance. This project also involved assessments of specialized technologies including explosives detection, biometrics, and ballistic-resistant podiums.

Design and Deployment of Silver Line Security System

Volpe supported the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) by designing and deploying an integrated access control, intrusion detection, and video surveillance system at the MBTA’s Silver Line facilities. This system included an automated vehicle screening system, which ensures that only Silver Line buses and other authorized vehicles can enter the Silver Line tunnel. The improved situational awareness provided by the security system has improved the agency's ability to manage safety and Silver Line operations.

Security Upgrades for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Volpe is currently implementing security enhancements at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Components deployed so far include emergency callboxes, access control for the dormitory complex, and video surveillance. Future work will include expanding the security and surveillance systems to all campus buildings and designing and deploying an entry point screening system.

Field Operational Tests of Blast-Resistant Video Cameras

Under an Interagency Agreement with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Science and Technology (S&T), Volpe developed and implemented a field test plan for blast-resistant cameras produced by two different companies under contract to S&T. Volpe coordinated with four transit agencies in different parts of the country that hosted the field tests, and installed the camera systems in conditions and locations that met the requirements of DHS, the camera manufacturers, and the host agencies. At the conclusion of the field tests, Volpe produced a report that captured the results.

The Impact

Systems developed and deployed by Volpe have protected the employees and assets of many of the nation’s federal agencies, as well as many state and local transportation agencies. Systems deployed at our nation’s borders have been used to prevent the entry of illegal immigrants and suspected terrorists. They have prevented unlawful intrusion into transportation systems and are relied upon daily for screening people who wish to enter government facilities. Security systems developed by Volpe have been deployed throughout the United States and in 120 countries throughout the world.