By Mark Edward Nero
On Dec. 15, the Port of Long Beach released a draft environmental study on a proposal to redevelop a rail yard to allow for the assembly of longer trains within the harbor. The study analyzes the impacts of the proposed development and mitigation measures that would address those impacts.
The proposed Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility would shift more cargo at Long Beach to on-dock rail, where containers are placed directly on trains at marine terminals. The port says no trucks would visit the facility.
The rail yard would be operated by Pacific Harbor Line, a switching railroad that has converted its fleet to clean diesel locomotives that reduce air pollution and save fuel.
“The proposed development would enhance the efficiency of goods movement at the Port of Long Beach,” Interim POLB CEO Duane Kenagy said. “This project is vital to our efforts to modernize the port and continue to lead the way in environmental sustainability.”
The port’s Draft Environmental Impact Report on the on-dock rail facility is available at www.polb.com/ceqa
Comments on the DEIR are being accepted through Feb. 13, 2017, and can be mailed to Heather Tomley, Director of Environmental Planning, 4801 Airport Plaza Drive, Long Beach, CA 90815 or emailed to heather.tomley@polb.com
Two public hearings will be held in January to offer the public an opportunity to comment in person on the document:
6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Silverado Park, 1545 W. 31st St., Long Beach, CA 90810; and 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, at the Port of Long Beach Interim Administrative Offices, 4801 Airport Plaza Drive, Long Beach, CA 90815.
More information at the proposed project and draft EIR is available at www.polb.com/PierB
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
