Includes Ship-to-Shore Technology Power and Mandatory Environmental Impact Reports for Cruise, Cargo Activity
Last week Governor Charlie Baker signed legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Collins requiring Massport to implement Ship-to-Shore power capability at Flynn Cruiseport. The measure was part of the omnibus economic stimulus package that also included mandatory environmental impact reporting on Massport activity at Flynn Cruiseport and the Conley Cargo Terminal. Collins led the effort in the Senate to attach the environmental language to funding for the renovation of Flynn Cruiseport he secured while in the House.
The legislation mandates Massport implement Ship-to-Shore power infrastructure capabilities, allowing ships to connect to land-based power sources rather than continuing to run their diesel generators, emitting fossil fuels into the atmosphere, while at berth in the Reserve Channel. In addition to the emissions reduction program, Senator Collins was able to include a requirement for annual environmental impact reports on air quality, noise pollution, and emissions stemming from operations at the Cruiseport and Cargo Terminal adjacent to South Boston.
Collins noted, “this legislation will ensure that residents and the public are being notified of the environmental impact on the community and region. These improvements will significantly reduce carbon emissions, mitigate pollution, and protect the residents who live in close proximity to these facilities.” Collins went on to say, “This was a community driven policy shaped by decades of work by environmental advocates in the South Boston community. I want to thank them for their work and Governor Baker for supporting this important legislation. After meeting with him about the community’s concern on this, he got it right away and didn’t want South Boston residents to bear any more than they already had. He’s been a great partner on continuing to support job growth, while at the same time taking out environmental responsibility seriously.”
