U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) has revealed a substantial $12,000,000 allocation from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to benefit the Northwest Seaport Alliance. The aim is to facilitate the creation of collaborative electric truck charging hubs, specifically tailored to enhance port operations in Seattle and Tacoma. These funds, championed by Jayapal through her affirmative vote for the Infrastructure Law, hold the potential to alleviate air pollution burdens in nearby communities by reducing emissions.
Expressing the significance of Washington’s ports, particularly those in Seattle and Tacoma, to the local economy and supply chains, Congresswoman Jayapal emphasized the importance of investing in clean energy infrastructure for these hubs. Jayapal conveyed her pride in supporting the Infrastructure Law and expressed gratitude for the allocation, foreseeing positive environmental impacts. The initiative seeks to establish electric truck charging hubs that cater to the substantial volume of heavy-duty trucks navigating cargo in and out of the ports on a daily basis. Jayapal stressed the anticipated benefits, emphasizing the potential improvement in air quality for communities situated near these transportation hubs.
The earmarked funds will actively contribute to the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s efforts to implement a competitive program for the development of shared electric truck charging hubs. These hubs are poised to support a network encompassing approximately 4,500 heavy-duty trucks engaged in cargo-hauling services for the ports of Seattle and Tacoma. An additional noteworthy outcome of the project is the projected reduction in emissions from around 300 diesel trucks.
Highlighting her ongoing commitment, Jayapal demonstrated support for the project by crafting a letter in 2023 and has further sought increased funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) appropriations bills. While this funding is currently under consideration in the initial round of negotiations, its realization depends on the final passage of the FY24 appropriations bills.
