The New York City Economic Development Corp. is seeking input from maritime operators and technology providers on a proposed zero-emission container-on-barge service connecting the Brooklyn Marine Terminal with the future Hunts Point Marine Terminal.
The request for expressions of interest calls for an all-electric or other zero-emission barge and tug operation capable of carrying at least 100 refrigerated 40-foot containers per sailing. The vessel would need enough onboard electrical capacity and reefer connections to maintain continuous refrigeration throughout the trip.
NYCEDC said the proposed service would move food and other cargo by water instead of relying on truck routes through the city. The agency said the project is intended to improve food-supply resiliency, provide additional regional freight capacity and reduce highway congestion, emissions and roadway wear.
The Hunts Point terminal is being designed to accommodate the simultaneous movement of as many as 150 40' containers in each direction. The facility is expected to open during the second quarter of 2030, with barge operations beginning around the same time.
The agency is requesting information about vessel size and design, service concepts, operating requirements, charging infrastructure and the feasibility of electric or other zero-emission tugboats. NYCEDC will also evaluate respondents’ experience with comparable maritime, logistics and zero-emission technology projects.
The information could be used to develop future requests for proposals and related procurements. NYCEDC said the initial route could eventually be expanded to other locations in New York Harbor and along the East Coast.
Questions concerning the RFEI are due by 5 p.m. Sept. 10. NYCEDC expects to publish its responses Sept. 21. Expressions of interest are due Oct. 15 at 4 p.m. ET.
