The Port of Los Angeles Working Group met Nov. 20 in the first of a series of gatherings to focus on reducing truck traffic during peak commuter times.

The group is comprised of about 60 participants representing trucking companies, importers, exporters, shipping lines, terminal operators, distribution centers, labor, railroads, MTA, Caltrans, U.S. Customs, local law enforcement and legislators.

The meeting was co-chaired by Councilwoman Janice Hahn and Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner James Acevedo.

"We must take this opportunity to demonstrate leadership and responsibility to address the increased volume of cargo entering and leaving our port," said Councilwoman Hahn. "The solutions to improving the quality of life for residents in the harbor area and also increasing the efficiency of port operations is finally within reach. With every Port of Los Angeles stakeholder in the room, I think that together, we are going to make a significant impact on traffic throughout the entire Southern California region."

Points of discussion included the necessity for entities in the cargo supply chain to find a systems approach solution; having consistent terminal operations and distribution networks as a goal to successfully implement extended gate hours; and quantifying costs of operating during non-peak hours.

"This meeting was a positive step for the industry. It was clearly understood that this working group needs to identify solutions to reducing truck traffic before regulations are legislated," said port commissioner Acevedo.