Port of San Diego Recognized at SANDAG Diamond Awards with Platinum Tier Status

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.