Wasserman Schultz Secures Millions to Cut Port Everglades Emissions

Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) joined the U.S. Department of Transportation in announcing a $53.3 million federal grant for the PEV Regional Port Operations With Emissions Reductions Project. This crucial project propels the decarbonization of Port Everglades by enabling the transition to electric, zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment and retiring older, diesel-powered equipment that has operated for a decade or more.

The impact of this grant reaches far beyond equipment updates and upgrades. It will directly alleviate the air quality burden on neighboring communities and sensitive ecological areas. This federal support will enable the purchase of advanced tier-4 diesel reach stackers, hybrid pickup trucks, electric terminal tractors, forklifts, reefer racks, and hybrid gantry cranes, as well as fund essential infrastructure like electrical upgrades for charging stations, high mast lighting, and an electrification plan that supports sustained zero-emissions port operations. Additionally, a workforce development program will prepare our community for the jobs of tomorrow.

"I will always fight for Port Everglades in our nation's capital and I am thrilled to help deliver more than $53 million in federal funds for the Port Everglades Emissions Reductions Project," said Wasserman Schultz. "In June I wrote and called Secretary Pete Buttigieg directly, urging him to fund this project. Together, this work will reduce harmful health impacts and environmental damage to communities surrounding the Port - specifically Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach, all of which I am proud to represent."

"We're grateful to the Congresswoman for her longstanding advocacy as we work to make the port more environmentally sustainable," said Broward County Mayor Nan Rich. "The grant funds will allow two of the port's marine terminal operators to address climate change, enhance resiliency and make additional infrastructure improvements."

The project builds on more than two years of planning and market assessment to advance vital sustainability goals targeted by MARAD, Broward County, the Port, and private terminal operators.

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