The Federal Highway Administration has allocated $148 million in grants to address pollution at the country’s ports caused by idling trucks. This funding is part of a $400 million initiative to enhance air quality as per the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The grants have been dispersed to 11 states and Puerto Rico under the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities Grant Program.
Communities near ports are disproportionately affected by the polluted air from idling trucks, stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in an announcement. The investments made will not only benefit truck drivers by saving time and money, but also assist ports in reducing congestion and emissions, ultimately improving air quality for workers and residents.
The 16 projects funded aim to decrease pollution in port-side communities by replacing diesel-powered trucks with electric or alternative fuel-powered ones, building electric vehicle charging infrastructure, enhancing port roadway access, and exploring technology upgrades to lower truck emissions.
Some of the projects funded include California receiving $49.7 million for the Ports of Long Beach, Oakland, and Los Angeles to introduce electric trucks and EV chargers, Texas receiving $26.9 million for the Port of Houston for zero-emission trucks and electric chargers, and Georgia receiving $15.3 million for the Port of Savannah for a charging project and truck replacement.
The projects are designed to improve the quality of life for workers and families affected by truck emissions, while also contributing to a cleaner energy economy that fights climate change and enhances community resilience, according to Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt.
