The Port of Los Angeles has been granted nearly $8 million to enhance its Port Optimizer technology, improving container visibility, truck appointment systems, and emissions reporting.
Port of Los Angeles Secures Funding
The Port of Los Angeles has been awarded approximately $8 million in funding from a California program aimed at port interoperability. The funds will be used to pursue three projects that will enhance the Port Optimizer technology. These include the development of a new California Ports Mobile application for increased visibility on container movement, an improved truck appointment system using artificial intelligence, and better user visibility into greenhouse gas emissions.
Enhancing Port Optimizer Technology
The Port Optimizer technology has been accessible to stakeholders since 2017, with several improvements made over the years. The technology provides stakeholders with up to 40 days of advanced visibility on their cargo, enabling them to anticipate and address potential issues. The grant from California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration will further enhance the data and tools available for shippers and carriers using the port.
Three Initiatives for Improvement
The three initiatives proposed by the Port of Los Angeles include the development of a new mobile application, CalPorts, which will connect users to the Department of Transportation’s Freight Logistics Operations Works program. The port also plans to leverage AI to improve the truckers’ appointment system, combining the port’s Trucking Appointment System with the Port Optimizer Track and Trace system for transparent cross-terminal scheduling and real-time container tracking. The system may later integrate with other port trucking appointment systems such as the Port of Long Beach. The third initiative focuses on improving user visibility into greenhouse gas emissions.
Funding Breakdown
The grant will be allocated to various tasks associated with the three enhancement projects for the Port Optimizer technology. The CalPorts Mobile Application project will receive $1,320,000, the Trucking Appointment System project will receive $2,930,000, and the Carbon Intensity Gateway project will receive $3,700,000.
California’s Investment in Ports
California has awarded about $27 million in funding to several ports in the state to enhance their data sharing platforms. The Port of Long Beach also received nearly $8 million to improve its Supply Chain Information Highway. Together, projects at the two San Pedro Bay ports account for over 58% of the funds awarded.
The Port of Los Angeles looks to the future with optimism as it receives significant funding to enhance its technology infrastructure, positioning itself as a key player in the digitization of port operations.
