Florida port purchases two new switchers

Next month, Port Manatee expects to add a second new locomotive to its switcher fleet. The Florida port began operating one new switcher in January.

Manufactured by National Railway Equipment Co., the N-Vironmotive 2GS-14B locomotives replace a switcher built in 1958.

The port obtained a $2.5 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery II grant to help fund the locomotive purchase. The port and Florida Department of Transportation also contributed funds.

The 1,400-horsepower switchers feature three generator-set engines and electronic controls. The locomotives are designed to reduce nitrous oxide and particulate matter emissions about 85 percent to 90 percent, and cut fuel usage about 40 percent to 60 percent compared with a conventional switcher.