[Statement issued by Stevens 27 March 2003, Abridged] The economic health and security of the nation is inherently linked to our estuaries and coastal zones and the maritime industries they support. The nation's ports and waterways handle more than two billion tons of cargo annually and 95 percent by weight of all US overseas trade. Significant expansion of port facilities in the US and abroad continues in the face of security threats to vessels and shoreside facilities, and hazards to shipping and port operations.

Effective responses to these issues necessitate the development of new technologies in support of the nation's Naval and industrial maritime infrastructure. These technologies include monitoring, detection, forecasting and control systems.

To meet these challenges, Stevens Institute of Technology will tonight inaugurate its latest advanced research center, the Center for Maritime Systems, directed by internationally renowned ocean engineer Dr. Michael Bruno.

For more information, go to www.StevensViews.com.