Port NOLA Gets $7.1M Federal Grant for Sustainability Infrastructure
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- The U.S. Department of Transportation is granting $7,117,567 to the Port of New Orleans.
- The grant will be used to upgrade infrastructure, purchase electric trucks, and support workforce development.
- The funding aims to reduce truck emissions and promote sustainability in transportation infrastructure.
DOT Grant to Reduce Truck Emissions at Port NOLA
Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) has revealed that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will allocate a $7,117,567 grant to the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA). This grant was made available through the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities program, a result of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which Congressman Carter had a hand in shaping.
According to Carter, the funding signifies a major step in reducing truck emissions at port facilities, thereby benefiting public health and the environment. The grant will aid in upgrading electrical infrastructure and the acquisition of all-electric trucks. Port NOLA aims to set a national example in sustainable transportation infrastructure and innovation.
The grant will further enable the purchase of 14 heavy-duty and five light-duty all-electric trucks, track energy use, and facilitate the evaluation of new emissions-reducing equipment. It will also support strategic partnerships with educational institutions for workforce development.
Brandy D. Christian, President and CEO of Port NOLA, expressed gratitude to the Biden Administration and federal delegation for aiding Port NOLA's commitment to sustainability, environmental justice, and reducing environmental footprint. She emphasized the port's dedication to leveraging green technologies, sustainable transportation, and aiding marginalized communities through workforce development initiatives.
Port NOLA: A Gateway to the World's Supply Chain
Keith Palmisano, VP and General Manager of Ports America Louisiana, lauded Congressman Troy Carter’s support in securing this public-private infrastructure investment. He emphasized the partnership's commitment to improving air quality, ensuring efficient trade, and leveraging economic benefits of the Lower Mississippi River.
Kristopher Calkins, New Orleans Terminal CEO, underlined Port NOLA's role as a crucial link in the world’s supply chain, driving the economy of Louisiana and the nation. He acknowledged the importance of emissions reduction, infrastructure modernization, and highlighted the combined sustainability efforts of Port NOLA and the federal government.
Deanna Rodriguez, CEO of Entergy New Orleans, expressed the company's readiness to collaborate with customers transitioning to electric fleets and implement improvements that lead to a brighter, greener future.
Judy Reese Morse, CEO of Urban League of Louisiana, commended Congressman Carter for his continuous support to strengthen the workforce and prepare marginalized communities for careers providing pathways to generational wealth. She expressed excitement about partnering with Port NOLA for regional workforce growth.
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