The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has announced a record achievement, securing US$347 million in federal funding from the Biden-Harris administration. This significant award, granted through the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Ports Program, is dedicated to advancing sustainability and community engagement at the busy U.S. port.

"The EPA’s US$347 million award to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to execute their ‘Catalyzing Change’ plan is a huge win for New Jersey, and a bold step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future," stated U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey.

This substantial funding will fuel a variety of green initiatives at the East Coast's busiest port. A significant portion, US$344 million, is designated to assist terminal operators, truckers, and other stakeholders in their transition to zero-emission equipment. This includes investments in new cargo-handling machinery, the installation of shore power facilities to reduce emissions, and the establishment of a voucher program designed to expedite the adoption of zero-emission drayage trucks.

An additional US$3 million will be allocated to strengthen the Port Authority's partnerships with local communities and stakeholders. This will involve the creation of a Port Community Advisory Council and enhanced engagement with drayage truck operators. The grant also supports a community air monitoring program and an update to the Drayage Truck Movement and Impact Study, both crucial for facilitating the industry's shift towards cleaner vehicle technologies.

These ambitious initiatives are directly in line with the Port Authority's Net Zero Roadmap, which sets a target of achieving net-zero emissions by the year 2050. The Port Authority already has several sustainability programs in place, including its Truck Replacement program.