POLB Selects Iteris to Complete Multimodal Transportation Study

Aerial view of container cargo ship leaving Long Beach Harbor in Los Angeles County California. (Port of Long Beach photo)

The Port of Long Beach (POLB) has awarded "technology ecosystem for smart mobility infrastructure" Iteris, Inc. a $900,000 contract for an 18-month multimodal transportation study.

The project, Iteris says, “will identify how best to accommodate cargo movement within the Port to enhance safety and efficiency for various transportation modes, including trucks, rail, transit, bicyclists, and pedestrians.” It will also coordinate future Port development and infrastructure improvements. Iteris is leading a team of partner firms, including HDR Inc., System Metrics Group, Raju Associates, and Valerie Martinez Associates Communications, Inc., to provide comprehensive services.

The multimodal transportation study, which “aims to advance the goals identified in the Port’s strategic plan,” will “identify strategies and recommendations to optimize the operations of the Port’s transportation system for its users and Port stakeholders,” according to the company.

Iteris has provided consulting services to POLB for more than 20 years in various capacities. Most recently, in 2023, Iteris assisted in a successful grant application to the Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program, which awarded $52.6 million to modernize critical on-dock rail capabilities and improve several key roadways aimed at speeding the flow of cargo through POLB.

“We’re proud to be a part of this essential project for the Port of Long Beach,” said Steven Bradley, Regional Vice President, Mobility Professional Services at Iteris. “Their mission to enhance productivity and efficiency in goods movement and improve the environment through sustainable practices aligns perfectly with Iteris’ goals. We’re excited to work on this study to increase efficiency and sustainability.”

In related news, POLB recently reported that “rising consumer confidence” has lifted trade moving through the Port in March, marking the seventh consecutive month of year-over-year cargo growth.

Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 654,082 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) last month, an 8.3% increase from March 2023, according to POLB. Imports grew 8.4% to 302,521 TEUs and exports were down 21.3% to 105,099 TEUs. Empty containers moving through the Port jumped 28.9% to 246,464 TEUs.

The Port has moved 2,002,820 TEUs during the first quarter of 2024, up 16.4% from the same period in 2023.

“Consumer demand remains strong and continues to drive cargo through this vital gateway for trans-Pacific trade,” said POLB CEO Mario Cordero. “We will continue to build the infrastructure that will allow us to grow our trade strategically and sustainably.”

“Steady cargo flows lead to steady jobs for our dedicated workforce,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Bobby Olvera Jr. “We will continue our role as the Port of Choice by moving cargo quickly, reliably and sustainably while providing outstanding customer service.”

Complete cargo numbers are available here.