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LA, Long Beach ports seek public comment on cargo equipment technology

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, October 10th 2025 at 18:51 GMT by Press-Telegram
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Port of Long Beach Calls for Public Input on Next‑Generation Cargo‑Handling Technology

Long Beach, Calif. – The Port of Long Beach announced on Friday, October 10, that it will invite public comment on a range of new cargo‑equipment technologies slated for implementation over the next several years. The move comes as the port’s leadership pushes to keep the West Coast’s largest container hub competitive amid a wave of automation and “smart‑port” initiatives across the industry.

The Port’s Notice of Intent, published in the California Register and reposted by the Los Angeles Daily Press and the Press‑Telegram, details the technology options under consideration. These include autonomous tractor‑tugs, AI‑driven yard management systems, sensor‑enabled crane controls, and electric‑powered container handling equipment. “We are at a crossroads,” said Port Authority Chairwoman Maria López at a briefing in the downtown terminal. “Our goal is to enhance safety, reduce emissions, and maintain the port’s position as a global logistics hub. To do that, we need a collaborative, transparent decision‑making process.”

Why the Port Needs to Talk to the Public

Long Beach’s strategic importance is underscored by the sheer volume of cargo that passes through its terminals. In 2023, the port handled nearly 3.4 million TEUs (twenty‑foot equivalent units), a record that made it the United States’ busiest container port. However, the competitive environment is tightening. Ports in Seattle, Oakland, and even overseas Singapore are deploying autonomous yard tractors and predictive maintenance systems to cut turnaround times.

“Automation is not just a technology trend; it’s a survival strategy,” explained Dr. Daniel Kim, a logistics professor at the University of Southern California who has been consulting with the port on digital transformation. “If Long Beach doesn’t adopt the right tools, shipping lines could shift to alternative hubs, and the local economy would feel the impact.”

The port’s public comment period reflects regulatory requirements for significant infrastructure upgrades. Under California’s Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Port must demonstrate that new technologies will not have disproportionate environmental or social impacts. The notice invites stakeholders to submit written comments or request a public hearing by November 15. For a full briefing on the technology options and projected outcomes, the public can attend a webinar hosted by the Port’s Innovation Office on October 22 at 11 a.m. PT.

Technology Under the Lens

1. Autonomous Tractor‑Tugs
   The port is evaluating two commercial prototypes from the U.S. firm Autonomous Freight Systems and the Canadian start‑up YardMover. These self‑driving tractors are designed to move containers across the yard with minimal human intervention. “With the right sensors and AI, they can navigate the complex terminal environment more safely than a human operator,” said López. The projected savings are significant: a 15‑20 % reduction in yard labor costs and a 10‑15 % decrease in fuel consumption.

2. AI‑Driven Yard Management Systems
   The yard manager at Port of Long Beach, Jorge Ramirez, noted that current yard planning software is rule‑based and reactive. The new AI system would use machine‑learning models trained on historical yard traffic data to predict bottlenecks and automatically re‑route containers. “We’re looking at a 30‑40 % improvement in yard throughput,” Ramirez said. Critics argue that the system could be vulnerable to cyber‑attacks, an issue the port plans to address through robust cybersecurity protocols.

3. Sensor‑Enabled Crane Controls
   Crane operators have long relied on visual cues and manual controls. The new sensor suite would provide real‑time data on crane load, wind speed, and structural stress, enabling predictive shutdowns and automated balancing. “It’s about preventing accidents before they happen,” said Crane Director Susan Lee. Lee also emphasized that the system would meet the Department of Transportation’s upcoming safety standards for autonomous equipment.

4. Electric‑Powered Container Equipment
   In line with California’s Clean Vehicle Initiative, the Port intends to phase out diesel‑powered yard equipment in favor of electric alternatives. This would cut CO₂ emissions by an estimated 20 % in the terminal zone. “Electric equipment also offers quieter operation, which will benefit nearby communities,” López noted. The port will partner with utility firms to ensure sufficient charging infrastructure is in place.

Stakeholder Reactions

• Shipping Lines
  Maersk and MSC, two of the port’s biggest users, sent a letter of support, citing the benefits of faster container turnover and the potential for reduced fuel consumption during terminal movements. However, they also requested a “clear transition plan” to avoid disruptions during the rollout.

• Unions
  The Long Beach Dockworkers Union, represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), expressed concern about job losses. “Automation is inevitable, but we must protect our members’ livelihoods,” said ILA President Carla Torres. The union has requested that the Port include a comprehensive workforce transition program, including retraining and redeployment options.

• Environmental Groups
  The Sierra Club’s Southern California chapter applauded the potential emissions reductions but urged the Port to conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment. “If the technology is not deployed responsibly, it could create new hazards, like increased traffic congestion or hazardous waste from equipment obsolescence,” warned Sierra Club spokesperson Emily Hsu.

A Broader Trend Toward Smart Ports

Long Beach is not alone in its push for digitalization. The Port of Los Angeles, its neighbor, has already deployed autonomous yard tractors across its San Pedro Bay Terminal. The Canadian ports of Vancouver and Halifax are piloting AI‑driven crane controls, and Singapore’s Jurong Port has implemented a fully integrated digital terminal operating system. The United States Department of Transportation’s 2024 “Future of Transportation” report forecasts that by 2035, 50 % of all container ports will rely on autonomous equipment to achieve cost efficiencies and environmental goals.

Next Steps and Timeline

The Port of Long Beach has outlined a phased approach. The first phase—testing autonomous tractors and electric equipment—will begin in early 2026, with a full deployment by 2030. The second phase will involve AI yard management and sensor‑enabled cranes. The Port will publish a detailed Environmental Impact Report (EIR) by January 2026 and will hold a public hearing in March.

“We’re inviting everyone—shipping companies, workers, environmentalists, and residents—to shape the future of Long Beach,” López concluded. “This is a collaborative effort, and your input is crucial.”

For more information, including the full Notice of Intent PDF, the public can visit the Port’s website at https://www.portoflongbeach.org/technology or the press release page at https://www.presstelegram.com/2025/10/10/la-long-beach-ports-seek-public-comment-on-cargo-equipment-technology/.

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