09/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2024 18:42
The Port of San Diego has implemented approximately 66 percent of the goals and objectives outlined in its Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS), according to the latest MCAS Highlights Report released this month. In support of its "Health Equity for All" vision, the MCAS identifies projects and initiatives to improve environmental and public health through cleaner air for all who live, work, and play on and around San Diego Bay while also supporting efficient and modern maritime operations.
"In less than three years since we adopted the MCAS, the Port and our partners have done an impressive amount of work to improve air quality and public health," said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "With deployment of new technologies, we are proud to be a port of firsts as we prove that we can be good neighbors to our portside communities and continue to bring economic opportunities to the region."
To enhance community engagement, the Port conducted stakeholder and community outreach to help inform the projects and objectives in the MCAS. The commitment of the Port along with its partners, has resulted in approximately $125 million for maritime electrification and efficiency efforts to-date. Some of those efforts include:
In addition to electrical infrastructure and equipment upgrades, the MCAS has also focused on community enrichment through various outreach and engagement events and the launch of the Portside Community Academy. Developed in 2023, the Portside Community Academy provides structured education on maritime-related air quality projects being pursued by the Port. Additionally, the Port expanded funding for its Maritime Industrial Impact Fund (MIIF), which has supported free electric community shuttles in National City - Free Ride Around National City (FRANC), the purchase of residential air purifiers in Barrio Logan, and more.
With all the work accomplished, there are still more projects on the horizon, including:
To learn more about the MCAS and to read the full highlights report, visit portofsandiego.org/mcas.