PATH tests new passenger screening technology

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) today is conducting a pilot security screening program at the Port Authority Trans-Hudson's (PATH) World Trade Center Station.

The agency is deploying a new body scanning unit called Evolv Edge, which is designed to detect firearms, explosives and other weapons. The agency began the pilot yesterday and will wrap it up today.

The trial marks the first time that this particular screening equipment has been tested publicly at a PANYNJ facility, authority officials said in a press release. Previously, the technology was tested at Port Authority Police Department headquarters in Jersey City, New Jersey, in a controlled environment.

The detector can screen up to 600 people per hour, according to manufacturer Evolv Technology.

"The idea behind this pilot program is to evaluate another resource available to us in the effort to ensure the continuing protection and security of the traveling public,” said PANYNJ Chief Security Officer John Bilich.

In August 2017, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority tested a similar Evolv device at a Red Line station.

Passenger screening technology was one of the many topics addressed at Progressive Railroading's recent Secure Rail Conference in Orlando, Florida.