The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) will receive $347 million in federal funding from the Biden-Harris administration to bolster its sustainability and community outreach efforts.
The funding represents the largest sustainability award the Port Authority has received to date.
The grants were provided through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program, which focuses on helping the nation’s ports address public health and environmental impacts on surrounding communities.
The funding will play a critical role in the Port Authority’s efforts to transition to more environmentally sustainable operations at the busiest seaport on the East Coast, reported the port.
It is also slated to strengthen collaboration with key partners in communities around the port facilities which are impacted by seaport operations.
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Much of the funding – $344 million in total – will reportedly assist the Port Authority and port operational partners such as terminal operators, truckers and other stakeholders in intensifying sustainability efforts.
The funding will enable container terminal operators to purchase zero-emission cargo handling equipment. It also provides funding for the installation of shore power capabilities, enabling a ship to shut its engine while berthed and significantly reduce emissions.
The funding will additionally allow the Port Authority to establish a voucher programme to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission drayage trucks.
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The further $3 million will serve to deepen the port’s collaboration with key groups who serve the port and live around it.
The Port Authority plans to use the funds to establish a Port Community Advisory Council, consisting of key stakeholders from communities around the port, to convene for regular meetings with port leadership.
The grant will also allow the agency to bolster its engagement with drayage truck operators, as well as update the agency’s Drayage Truck Movement and Impact Study to better understand the impacts and needs of the drayage industry as it transitions to cleaner vehicles.
The money will also enable the creation of a community-centric air monitoring programme.
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“These extraordinary awards represent a significant step toward our community engagement and sustainability efforts, and we extend our sincere appreciation to all of the port partners who made it happen,” said Bethann Rooney, Port Director at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
“The cargo moved through the port radiates out across the country, but it would not be possible without the collaboration of the port community.
“Our goal is to ensure that all stakeholders have a voice as we look to maximise the impact of every dollar to deliver cleaner air, new equipment, and a port that leads the way on sustainability and community engagement.”
Earlier this May, the PANYNJ outlined a multifaceted package of significant investments in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
