The Maritime Administration (MARAD), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), has called for information from the public to assist MARAD in determining how best to organize and structure a Center for Maritime Innovation.

The Center would aim to study and help address “emerging environmental challenges faced by the maritime transportation system.” MARAD says it is seeking comments and information on the qualities, competencies, and costs required for the functioning of such a Center; its structure and organization; and suggestions and experiences establishing this kind of secretariat.

The Center would be run by an administrative organization that acts as a secretariat selected through a competitive process of eligible domestic entities, preferably a nonprofit organization, MARAD says. The secretariat would preferably have familiarity with emerging marine environmental technologies, policies, and practices related to the maritime transportation system, including the use of alternative fuels and the development of both vessel and shoreside infrastructure.

Comments must be received on or before October 2, 2023. They should refer to DOT Docket Number MARAD–2023–0163 and may be submitted by any of the following methods:

• Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Search “MARAD–2023–0163” and follow the instructions for submitting comments. 

• Mail/Hand-Delivery/Courier: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590. If you would like to know that your comments reached the facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. 

Unless there is a request for confidential treatment, all comments received will be posted without change to the docket at www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided.