Long Beach rolls out another 100 clean trucks

Since the programme began in late 2008, nearly 5,000 “clean” trucks have registered to work at the Port and they now carry more than 50% containers in and out of the Port. By 2012, trucks that do not meet the strict 2007 federal “clean” truck emission standards will be banned from the ports. While a majority of the older trucks are being replaced by private industry, Port and state bond money are also helping to speed the turnover, particularly to alternative fuels.

The 100 new truck subsidies were awarded through a lottery on July 7, 2009 from more than 1,200 applicants that included trucking companies and independent operators. The companies and drivers are being contacted to confirm their orders. At least half of the LNG trucks will be delivered in the next few days.

The Port of Long Beach Board Committee also approved entering into an agreement with the neighbouring Port of Los Angeles, the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the California Air Resources Board to distribute US$46.5m in Proposition 1B money, the 2006 state-wide transportation measure, to subsidize more clean truck purchases.