Anacostia Rail Holdings subsidiary Pacific Harbor Line (PHL) has earned an award for “exceptional leadership in the development and promotion of global trade in Southern California” from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Bob Kleist Leadership Award was presented May 1 during the Chamber’s World Trade Week celebration. Named after the late Bob Kleist, who was dedicated to international business advocacy, the annual award has recognized both individuals and organizations.
PHL is the neutral S&T (switching and terminal) operator for the on-dock rail network serving the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. It supports the movement of intermodal cargo, while minimizing truck traffic and reducing environmental impacts. In 2024, the railroad, together with the California Air Resources Board, received partial funding for five new Progress Rail battery-electric locomotives and two battery chargers through the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) CRISI program, and it earned safety awards from the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association. Among other achievements, PHL was recognized by the FRA for its service and workforce development during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“PHL is honored to be recognized with the Bob Kleist Leadership Award,” PHL President Otis L. Cliatt II said. “This award celebrates the essential role of rail in international logistics, and we’re proud to serve at the heart of America’s busiest port complex.”
The World Trade Week ceremony featured remarks by Maria Salinas, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce; Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Long Beach and recipient of the Stanley T. Olafson Award; and Corinne Murat, Director, Government Affairs for Mattel, who presented the Bob Kleist Award to PHL and received the Stanley T. Olafson Award in 2024.
Further Reading:
- Mobile Carbon Capture Coming to Railroads?
- PHL Advances Zero-Emission Operations, Receives ASLRRA Safety Awards
- Watch: POLB Breaks Ground on Pier B Project
- PHL Hosts Tour for STB’s Primus
- BLET Advances Agreements With CF&E, PHL
- PHL Hosts Supply Chain Event
- Supporting the Drive to Net Zero Emissions by 2050
- ARH Explores Rail Shuttle-Inland Port Concept
