Vision 2000
Vision For The Future
Growth in Pacific trade is creating a need for improved capacity and efficiency in American ports. The Port of Oakland has an opportunity to expand by developing marine and rail terminals on a closed naval base and deepening its shipping channel. Recognizing the need for rapid progress on the deepening project, the Port of Oakland and Army Corps of Engineers formed a unique partnership that allows the Port to fund the necessary studies and to work with the Corps to complete them. The Oakland project incorporates state and federal policies for beneficial reuse of the dredged material. Sand and mud will restore bay habitats or be used for constructing the maritime and public park projects. This multipurpose approach allows the federal dollar to perform double duty producing economic and environmental benefits.

The Port and private investors will shoulder the largest share of the costs for the marine and rail terminal developments. However, Congressional action is needed through the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) to authorize the Army Corps of Engineers to construct the Oakland 50-ft. deepening project. The Port will serve as the local cost-sharing sponsor. Each federal dollar expended in the deepening of the Oakland Harbor will be matched with significant local and private investment.

The Port of Oakland has a vision for the future where the American economy prospers from the reuse of military lands and channel deepening for efficient trade, where the public benefits from a new shoreline park, and where the environment benefits from major habitat creation. Congress can complete this vision by authorizing the deepening of the Oakland Harbor in the Water Resources Development Act.