HONOLULU (KHON2) — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration announced $5.2 million for port improvements in Hawaii under a new Bipartisan Infrastructure Law program.
The program aims to improve air quality for truck drivers, port workers and families that live in communities surrounding ports.
“The projects funded under this program will improve the quality of life for workers and families impacted by pollution from idling trucks while building a clean-energy economy that combats climate change and makes our communities more resilient,” said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “Port-related trade is good for the economy but unfortunately has been at a cost to nearby communities, which is why we are pleased to announce this investment from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will make a real difference for people who live and work near ports.”
It should also reduce emissions from idling trucks throughout the nation’s ports while modernizing infrastructure and strengthening supply chains.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation will receive $5.2 million to modernize port gates and automate improvements at the Sand Island Terminal in Honolulu Harbor.
“When truckers spend hours idling at ports, it’s bad for drivers, bad for supply chains, and bad for nearby communities that feel the brunt of more polluted air,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “The investments we are announcing today will save truck drivers time and money and help ports reduce congestion and emissions, while making the air more breathable for workers and communities.”