By Karen Robes Meeks
The trucking industry in the Northwest will have to operate with cleaner trucks starting April 1, 2018.
Last week, the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance – made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma – changed its Clean Truck Program to read that in order to operate within the port’s international container terminals, trucks must be outfitted with a 2007 or newer engine or equivalent emissions control retrofits. Non-compliant truckers may obtain a temporary pass while working to get vehicles that meet those standards by the end of the year.
Starting April 1, all trucks entering a container terminal at the Port of Seattle must have an RFID tag or a pass.. At the Port of Tacoma, a green Clean Truck Program sticker or a pass will be required. Those failing to comply will be turned away.
The 2007 engine model standard is expected to remain in place until at least 2025, according to the ports.
To apply for the temporary port access pass, visit www.nwseaportalliance.com/trucks. Application process starts March 1 and must be completed by April 1, 2018.
