On August 24, 2006 The Port of Oakland honored five, local truck drivers who have recently completed the Port's 'Truck Replacement Program' and for their role in creating a 'cleaner and greener' Port.
This truck replacement program provides financial incentives for owners of heavy-duty trucks to replace their older trucks for 'cleaner and greener' trucks. The Port has made a commitment to provide over $2 million to replace approximately 80 trucks used in the Port maritime area. As a direct result of this program, over 15.5 tons of emissions will be reduced during the next five years.
'The Port of Oakland shares everyone's concern about air quality in our community and the bay area, and we work closely with all of our stakeholders,' said Oakland Board of Port Commissioner President, Anthony Batarse. 'This truck replacement program is the direct result of our collaboration with West Oakland residents.'
Featured speakers included Port of Oakland representatives, city officials and US Representative, Barbara Lee (9th Congressional District). After the event, there was a special truck demonstration that showcased the latest environmental technologies to reduce truck emissions. This recognition event also coincided with 'National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.'
'Professional truck drivers deliver goods that are used in every home, community, school and business in our region,' said Port of Oakland Deputy Executive Director of External Affairs, Harold Jones. 'Across the United States, these dedicated truckers travel more than 170 billion miles and deliver 6.5 billion tons of goods each year."
