Port of New Orleans Begins Clean Truck Plan
The Port of New Orleans said it’s begun a Clean Truck Replacement Program that will allow 20 drayage truckers to replace their older Class 8 trucks with newer models.
The program offers to pay 50% of the cost to replace trucks from the 1993 to 2006 model years with units from 2012 and newer. Fleets that serve cargo terminals and warehouses along the Mississippi River and the Industrial Canal can apply.
The program can provide up to $35,000 per truck, with a maximum of two units per company, said a statement by the port. Applications are due by Oct. 12. If more than 20 applications are received, the port plans a lottery to decide who receives the vehicles.
“The program is a win-win,” said Gary LaGrange, CEO of the port. “Local trucking companies can replace inefficient vehicles cost-effectively with commensurate emissions reductions. We have the opportunity to start a conversation about air quality.”
Clean Truck programs have proliferated nationwide since the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California, launched their effort a decade ago.
The program was backed with a $727,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to the port.
