Port of San Diego Recognized at SANDAG Diamond Awards with Platinum Tier Status
Contact: Josh Kellems, 619.642.1153, jkellems@portofsandiego.org
For the third straight year, the Port of San Diego has achieved Platinum tier status in the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) annual Diamond Awards. SANDAG hosts the Diamond Awards to celebrate the accomplishments of employers participating in the Employer Commuter Program, which offers complimentary transportation assistance to organizations around San Diego. Organizations recognized have made substantial enhancements to make it easier for employees to participate in commuter programs, rather than relying on driving alone.
Port staff accepted the award during a ceremony at the Downtown Central Library on September 17, 2024. Platinum status is the highest level of recognition in the program.
“The Port of San Diego is proud to receive another SANDAG Diamond Award for our dedication to lowering carbon emissions by promoting sustainable commuting for our workforce,” said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “As environmental champions, the Port is committed to reducing emissions across all areas of our operations. Participating in SANDAG’s Employer Commuter Program helps us get closer to that goal.”
The Port’s commuter benefits program includes a hybrid remote work program, electric vehicle charging stations for employees, a commuter reimbursement program, and commuter surveys to evaluate employee commuter behavior. The Port reimburses employees 100 percent of out-of-pocket expenses incurred through participation in alternative transportation programs such as commuter carpool/vanpool services or the purchase of monthly passes for bus, train, and/or trolley transportation.
The SANDAG Diamond Awards recognizes organizations in the Employee Commuter Program for their accomplishments in promoting sustainable commute choices. Employers earn Diamond Award points throughout the year by establishing commuter benefits programs, hosting commuter events, and encouraging employee behavior shifts toward sustainable transportation. There are four tiers of Diamond Awards recognition: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
The award comes during the Port’s celebration of Green Port Month, an annual celebration of past, ongoing, and emerging environmental achievements by the Port.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO ENVIRONMENT
Port of San Diego Environment champions the safekeeping and environmental care of our diverse ecosystems. Year after year, environmental goals are set and measured to evolve environmental initiatives – ensuring San Diego Bay remains a vibrant resource and contributes to a remarkable way of life for visitors and residents for generations to come.