The Port of Los Angeles has recently adopted a new slogan: "A Cleaner Port, A Brighter Future" and, indeed, much of their focus is on the (human) environment, particularly dealing with air quality issues.

A precedent setting report was adopted in November 2006 by both the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach (the "San Pedro Bay Ports") entitled: "San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan". As stated in the Plan's Foreword: "This plan is the first of its kind in the country, linking the emissions reduction efforts and visions of the two largest ports in the United States with similar efforts and goals of the regulatory agencies in charge of ensuring compliance with air quality standards." To view the Plan, visit the Port's web site at: www.portoflosangeles.org. 

Regarding the Port's website: under the leadership of new Executive Director, Dr. Geraldine Knatz, and the Mayor Villaraigosa appointed Board of Harbor Commissioner, many of the concerns expressed by your Association over the past years are (finally) being addressed, air quality being paramount among them. The Port seems to be much more open to sharing information and listening to its various communities. This is evidenced by their greatly expanded web site that has a direct lind from our Home Page. Agendas for Board Meetings, detailed staff reports supported recommendations, bi-weekly video reports from Dr. Knatz and members of the Board, a current calendar of public events relative to the Port and many other interactive features can now be accessed using this web site.

Following up on the Clean Air Action Plan, the Port of Los Angeles, with the Port of Long Beach to follow, has issued a request for proposals for private companies to develop a program for the use of LNG powered trucks and container yard equipment. If and when implemented, this will be one step in reducing diesel air emissions.  The Port also has entered into an agreement with Nowergian Cruise Line (NCL) to utilize Alternative Marine Power (AMP), better known as: "cold ironing" for the Norwegian Star ship that is homeported in San Pedro.

The SSHOA has been following the plans for waterfront enhancements for several years. As previously reported, while the overall master plan environmental document is being prepared, a process that may take 18-24 months, the Port is proceeding with a number of near-term, related improvements in San Pedro. The San Pedro Waterfront Improvement Plan was formerly known as the "Bridge to Breakwater" plan that originated through community groups such as the Los Angeles Watts Economic Development Committee and supported by the Homeowners' Coalition and the Neighborhood Councils as well as PCAC. The Port's revised plan for the San Pedro Waterfront was presented in a Draft EIR "scoping" document and public meeting. Comments are due (see our Community Calendar for details) on or before February 28th. Again, full details may be found at: www.portoflosangeles.org. At the public meeting last month, there was general, across-the-board criticism of the Port's new concept. Of particular concern was the proposal to build two new cruise ship berths in the outer harbor area of San Pedro. Some critics said that this would have the effect of by-passing the downtown business district, currently being revitalized, and be counter to the long-held goal of integrating the Port's waterfront activities with the community. Other significant criticisms were directed at the discontinuities in the proposed "Grand Promenade", especially in the area south of Ports O' Call village where a major liquid bulk tank farm will remain for the next 20 years under the terms of a recent lease renewal.

In addition to the usual sources of news concerning the Port: L A Times, Long Beach Press-Telegram, Daily Breeze, More San Pedro and Random Lengths, the SSHOA will update this report on a monthly basis.