Impact of Federal Grant Pause on Port of Corpus Christi
TL/DR –
The Port of Corpus Christi has been awarded a $105 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which is aimed at reducing air pollution through investing in zero-emission equipment and infrastructure. However, the grant is currently on hold due to two executive orders issued by the Trump administration, which directed agencies to pause disbursement of funds, including grants, until they are approved by senior appointees. Community stakeholders are hopeful that both the environmental and economic benefits of the grant will be realized once the funding is released.
Port of Corpus Christi Awaits $105 Million Grant to Reduce Air Pollution
The Port of Corpus Christi is set to receive a $105 million federal grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce air pollution through investment in zero-emission technology. The grant, however, has been put on hold due to legal battles over the Trump Administration’s freeze on federal grants.
Details of the Grant
The grant is part of the Clean Ports Program, which is authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. The program awarded approximately $2.9 billion in grant funds across the U.S, with the Port of Corpus Christi being one of the 55 recipients. The funds would pay for zero-emissions equipment to help reduce mobile source emissions of pollutants, air toxins, and greenhouse gases.
The grant covers approximately 70% of the activities within the Port of Corpus Christi’s project scope. This includes the purchase of three zero-emissions, battery electric tugboats for tug companies operating in the port. Although the EPA had initially planned to issue the awards in December, this was stalled on Jan. 27 when the Trump administration issued two executive orders that directed agencies to pause disbursement of funds.
The Impact of the Grant Delay
As the Port of Corpus Christi awaits its award, the freeze on funding continues to be challenged in court. Meanwhile, the Port spokesperson Lisa Hinojosa has confirmed that the port is still on track to receive the grant funds, although details of how the grant will be used remain unclear.
Community’s Perspective on the Grant
Environmental advocates and members of the community view this grant as an opportunity for the Port to deliver on environmental goals and support local communities. Laura Gillam, president of Maryland-based consulting company ResilientPath Strategies, expressed encouragement about the port grantees receiving the grant funding. She emphasized that cleaning up the ports opens the door for economic opportunities and growth.
Program manager of Corpus Christi-based environmental advocacy organization Chispa Texas, Elida Castillo, echoed Gillam’s sentiments. She called for the Port to take action in reducing emissions and holding itself accountable for the facilities it owns.
Can Grants be Legally Terminated?
According to the Uniform Grant Guidance, grantor organizations generally cannot pause a grant award based on changing policy priorities. However, the Office of Management and Budget could revise regulations that lead an agency to end a grant based on new program goals or activities. This can only take place if the grant language includes the terms and conditions of the award.
More about the federal funds to support Port of Corpus Christi maintenance activities
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