New Jersey receives EPA grant for ferry upgrades

Sens. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced today that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has won a federal grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace the engines on some of the state’s ferries.

“This grant is a win-win,” Menendez said. “This funding will not only provide for necessary upgrades to New Jersey’s aging ferry fleet, affording commuters the latest technology and convenience when they head to work, but it will also help reduce dangerous emissions that threaten our environment."

The nearly $1.4 million grant will replace engines on the ferries running between Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, and New York City. Currently using Tier 1 diesel marine propulsion engines, the ferries will be upgraded to Tier 4 certified engines, an improvement that will reduce their emissions of harmful pollutants. The grant is part of the EPA’s actions in relation to the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act and is one of only four handed out, which together total $5 million.

“Ensuring the health and safety of our commuters is top priority,” Booker said. "These federal funds will enable much-needed upgrades to our aging fleet of ferries but, more importantly, will also reduce our environmental footprint, helping us to work towards a better future.”