Portland Bureau of Transportation Explores Zero-Emission Delivery Zone Pilot
The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) conducted a six-month pilot program to test zero-emission deliveries in a 17-block area of downtown Portland, Oregon. The initiative aimed to improve curb management and explore the use of electric cargo bikes, e-trucks, and curb management technology. The pilot revealed that unauthorized vehicles occupied loading zones 75% of the time, highlighting the need for better curb management. The project involved partnerships with technology companies like INRIX, Automotus, and Cleverciti, which provided digital tools to manage the zones. The pilot permitted 65 zero-emission vehicles, including Amazon's electric Rivian trucks and DHL's new EVs, to operate in the zone. The initiative is part of the broader SMART Curb Collaborative, supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation's SMART grants.