Long Beach, CA: The Port of Long Beach is chugging into the “Year of Rail” in 2024, with a focus on modernizing facilities, boosting air quality, and ultimately becoming the world’s first zero-emissions seaport.

CEO Mario Cordero laid out the ambitious plan in his State of the Port Address, highlighting the Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility as the centerpiece. This state-of-the-art terminal, set for construction this year, will double Pier B’s rail yard size, triple on-dock rail capacity, and move freight faster and cleaner.

“It’s not just about operational efficiency,” Cordero emphasized. “By 2030, we’ll be a zero-emission port, a model for sustainability.”

Beyond Pier B, the Port secured a record $792 million in grants for green initiatives in 2023, including:

  • Hydrogen hub: Fueling cargo-handling equipment with zero-emissions technology.
  • Pier Wind: Building a 400-acre facility to assemble offshore wind turbines, contributing to California’s renewable energy goals.
  • Congressman Alan Lowenthal Global Trade and Education Center: Educating the public about the Port’s role and commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Port also closed 2023 with 8 million TEUs moved, down slightly from 2022 but exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Mayor Rex Richardson commended the Port’s continued economic engine role and dedication to a clean future.

“Pier B will solidify our competitiveness, fuel the region’s economy, and be a sustainability blueprint for ports worldwide,” said Harbor Commission President Bobby Olvera Jr. “We’re electrifying equipment, decarbonizing operations, and building the workforce for a thriving future.”

With over $2.2 billion in planned capital improvements for the next decade, the Port of Long Beach is on track to be a leader in efficient, sustainable, and future-proof cargo movement.

Key Takeaways:

  • Port of Long Beach gears up for “Year of Rail” with major modernization and sustainability plans.
  • Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility to double capacity and triple on-dock rail volume.
  • Record $792 million secured in 2023 for green initiatives like hydrogen hub, Pier Wind, and education center.
  • Port remains an economic engine, exceeding pre-pandemic cargo levels.
  • Over $2.2 billion in planned capital improvements to boost capacity, competitiveness, and sustainability in the next decade.

Source: www.ajot.com