Funds available to offset impacts of cargo operations

A new Port of Long Beach grant program with $15 million in funding is scheduled to debut in November with a call for grant proposals. The first grants, designed to help offset the impact of port operations on the community and beyond, could be distributed at the beginning of next year.

The Port Grant Programs were established this spring. The Board of Harbor Commissioners approved the first funding, $15 million, as part of the Middle Harbor Redevelopment Project, a 10-year plan to remake two aging shipping terminals into one modern facility. The grant programs are not tied to any one project, but are to be funded by the approval of significant developments like Middle Harbor.

The grant programs are designed to offset the cumulative air quality and noise impacts future Port projects will have on the surrounding community, and to reduce greenhouse gases. The $15 million will be divided equally among three separate funds to assist schools and related sites, health clinics and senior centers, and greenhouse gas projects.

“While we build in environmental improvements to Port terminals and equipment, the grants will go a step further to reduce those impacts that still exist,” said Dr. Robert Kanter, the Port’s Managing Director of Environmental Affairs and Planning. “Part of the funding will go directly to the areas of Long Beach most affected by the Port, and part will be used to reduce the gases linked to climate change.”

Since holding a series of three informational meetings in June 2009, Port staff has been preparing the grant applications, which should be ready for public release in November. Then the Port will hold workshops to familiarize potential applicants with the grant process and assist applicants with their submittals.

An advisory committee, comprised of Long Beach community members (appointed by Mayor Bob Foster), state and local regulators, and industry is being formed to review and rank the expected grant proposals. Final recommendations will be submitted to the Board of Harbor Commissioners for approval.

(Source: Transport Weekly)