Honolulu has been selected to receive Urban Area Security Initiative funding from the Department of Homeland Security in fiscal year 2007, U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka said in a news release.

Honolulu received UASI funding, which is awarded to cities deemed to be high risk and high density, in fiscal years 2003, 2005 and 2006.

Honolulu is among 45 cities of national importance selected to receive the additional Department of Homeland Security funding for urban areas based on a formula that focuses on threat, vulnerability and consequence.

"I am pleased that DHS has once again recognized Honolulu's unique needs as the only major urban area separated from the continental United States," said Akaka, a senior member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

"Honolulu relies upon UASI funding to aid the hundreds of thousands of tourists and military personnel who are present in the city on any given day in addition to the city's residents. This cannot be done with state and local resources alone."

Honolulu received $6.45 million in UASI funding in 2005 and $4.76 million in 2006.

The Department of Homeland Security will determine the 2007 UASI funding level for Honolulu after the eligible 45 cities submit applications detailing security needs and plans. Last year, awards were made at the end of May.