NEW ORLEANS – In a move towards sustainability and innovation, the Port of New Orleans has been granted $7,117,567 from the Federal Highway Administration’s Reducing Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) Grant program. This funding, facilitated by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to modernize port facilities while promoting environmental health and workforce development.
Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) emphasized the significance of the grant, stating, “Continually upgrading our ports is essential to attract new businesses and keep and create jobs.” Echoing this sentiment, Rep. Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA) highlighted the importance of reducing emissions and fostering sustainability in transportation infrastructure.
The grant will be instrumental in reducing truck congestion and emissions at Port terminals, specifically benefiting Ports America Louisiana and New Orleans Terminal, LLC. Moreover, $200,000 in sub-awards will be allocated for workforce development and educational initiatives at Nunez Community College and the Urban League of Louisiana.
Port NOLA President & CEO Brandy D. Christian expressed gratitude towards the Biden Administration and federal delegation for their support in advancing sustainability efforts. Christian emphasized the port’s commitment to environmental justice and reducing its environmental footprint through the utilization of green technologies and infrastructure.
The investment will see the installation of seven electric terminal tractors and associated charging infrastructure at Port NOLA terminal operators, Ports America Louisiana, and New Orleans Terminal, LLC. Keith Palmisano, Vice President, and General Manager of Ports America Louisiana, underscored the importance of modern and sustainable operations in improving air quality and fostering economic growth.
Kristopher Calkins, CEO of New Orleans Terminal, LLC, emphasized the significance of reducing emissions and modernizing infrastructure for the future. Port NOLA, in collaboration with its partners, aims to create pathways for the thousands of jobs expected to be generated by the port’s Louisiana International Terminal (LIT).
Nunez Community College and the Urban League of Louisiana will play crucial roles in supporting workforce development and promoting maritime and logistics careers. Tina Tinney, Chancellor of Nunez Community College, and Judy Reese Morse, President and CEO of the Urban League of Louisiana, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and its potential impact on the region’s workforce.
A portion of the grant funding will be allocated for data management and analytics software installation, with support from BP Pulse and Entergy New Orleans. Deanna Rodriguez, president, and CEO of Entergy New Orleans, emphasized the importance of collaboration in transitioning to a greener future.
The Port of New Orleans serves as a vital gateway for global commerce and an in-demand cruise port. Its strategic location and integrated logistics solutions support regional economic prosperity and drive innovation in transportation infrastructure.
