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VANCOUVER, Sept. 5 /CNW/ -- VANCOUVER, Sept. 5 /CNW/ - Port Metro Vancouver is pleased with today's announcement by Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific Gateway) James Moore of up to $20.9 million in federal funding under the Asia Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative Transportation Infrastructure Fund for five short sea shipping projects and two road projects in British Columbia's Lower Mainland. This funding is part of a potential $43.5 million joint investment with private sector transportation service providers and municipalities in the region.

"Today's announcement for short sea shipping has tremendous potential for this region, providing a more sustainable environment by more fully utilizing existing waterways, and reducing impacts on the road infrastructure," said Captain Gordon Houston, President and Chief Executive Officer of Port Metro Vancouver. "For example, one barge carries as much cargo as 65 trucks, or 15 rail cars. So the potential advantages are quite clear," said Houston, who joined Secretary of State Moore for the announcement at Canada Place in Vancouver.

Short sea shipping is the marine transport of cargo between points that are relatively close to one another, such as along rivers and coastlines and represents one of the most promising opportunities for growth in a reliable and sustainable transportation system. Efficient road, rail and waterborne transportation contribute to port productivity and growth, reduce environmental impacts, and can provide an acceptable rate of return on investments. In the long term, innovative transportation solutions like short sea shipping can promote the sustainability of port business.

"Short sea shipping is something that won't just happen on its own, and so the government's leadership and involvement, and the participation of the municipal government and private sector partners are critical in helping to create successful examples that will demonstrate that this concept works," added Houston.

Port Metro Vancouver is Canada's largest and most diversified port, trading more than $53 billion in goods with more than 100 trading economies annually. Port activities generate 69,000 jobs across Canada with $4 billion in Gross Domestic Product and $8.9 billion in economic output.