NORTH BILLERICA, MA - Passport Systems, Inc. has started construction on a state-of-the-art, non-intrusive, cargo inspection facility at the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), Port of Boston, Conley Container Terminal in South Boston which is designed to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of cargo screening at the Port. Passport Systems’ SmartScan™ 3D automated cargo inspection system can detect, locate and identify contraband at ports and border crossings around the globe as well as automatically clear or confirm alarms.   Dr. Robert J. Ledoux, President & CEO of Passport Systems, stated, “Passport Systems uses a range of revolutionary technologies, designed to protect people, borders and economies from growing forms of threats. Upon delivery, the SmartScan™ 3D scanner is expected to increase the effectiveness and efficiency by which cargo coming through the Port of Boston is assessed.  Our mission is to provide advanced technology and solutions for enhanced safety, security, and contraband detection. We look forward to advancing this project and seeing that mission to completion.” Construction of the facility is the next phase of a US Department of Homeland Security, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DHS/DNDO) initiative under the Nuclear and Radiological Imaging Platform – Advanced Technology Demonstration (NRIP ATD) project awarded to Passport Systems in 2012. The facility is expected to be operational early in 2016. A lease has been signed with project partner, Massport, for the construction, testing and evaluation phases of this project. Passport Systems has awarded the construction contract to NELCO Worldwide, Inc. of Burlington, MA, a firm that specializes in the design and construction of specialized radiological facilities.  Richard J. LeBlanc, President & CEO of Nelco Worldwide, stated “NELCO Worldwide is proud to be part of the Passport Systems team and play an integral role in the introduction of state-of-the-art detection technology. The unique design of this comprehensive shielding system and scanning facility was created by NELCO to fully support the precise needs of Passport Systems equipment. In this collaborative effort, NELCO is now responsible for building the technologically advanced facility, developed for a multitude of scanning uses. Ultimately, everyone involved with this unparalleled project are striving toward the same goal— increased peace of mind regarding the cargo that is entering through the Port of Boston.”