Cassidy Announces $7.1 Million for Port of New Orleans From His Infrastructure Law

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Port of New Orleans will receive $7,117,567.00 in the Department of Transportation (DOT) Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) Grant Program from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This funding will be used to upgrade electrical infrastructure, purchase electric terminal trucks and pickup trucks, track emissions and energy use, evaluate new emissions-reducing equipment, and support workforce development.

"Continually upgrading our ports is essential to attract new businesses and keep and create jobs," said Dr. Cassidy. "This money improves infrastructure and workforce development. This is how to make the Port of New Orleans even more competitive."

"We continue to prioritize the utilization of green technologies and infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and helping underserved communities through workforce development initiatives," said Port NOLA President & CEO Brandy D. Christian.

"Ports America Louisiana sincerely appreciates Senator Bill Cassidy's… support and assistance in securing this vital public-private infrastructure investment in modern and sustainable operations, which will improve air quality in and around our terminals. For over 100 years, Ports America Louisiana has been a proud partner with the Port of New Orleans, investing for the future, ensuring efficient trade, and capitalizing on innovative industry trends, all aiming to leverage the economic benefits of the Lower Mississippi River," said Keith Palmisano, Vice President, and General Manager of Ports America Louisiana.

"The Port of New Orleans is a vital gateway to the world's supply chain, and an economic engine for Louisiana and the nation. We realize the importance of reducing emissions, increasing efficiency, and modernizing our infrastructure for the future," said Kristopher Calkins, New Orleans Terminal, LLC CEO. "We thank Port NOLA, and the federal government for their help in prioritizing our collective sustainability initiatives."

"We look forward to working with Port NOLA and our other partners to establish pathways related to maritime and logistics careers, deliver technical skills instruction to support new port-related technologies, and supporting the fulfillment of apprenticeship opportunities," said Tina Tinney, Ed.D., Nunez Community College Chancellor.

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