Audio Report
Transcript of Audio Report
Momentum – that’s the one word that best describes the Port of Oakland record-breaking 2016!
With the Port of Oakland Year In Review, I’m Marilyn Sandifur.
Maritime transformed operations and set a new record in loaded container volume;
Oakland International Airport delivered record passenger growth and flights;
And Jack London Square attracted the most visitors in its history.
With all this business activity, the Port also set a new revenue record.
In 2016 …
Port of Oakland commissioners, directors, staff and partners navigated obstacles, collaborated for change, and positioned the Port for financial security. Port operating revenue held steady in Fiscal Year 2016 despite the departure of a bankrupt maritime tenant. Fitch Ratings upgraded Port debt reflecting the Port’s diverse revenues from aviation, maritime, and commercial real estate. The Port generated a record $338 million in operating revenue.
Remember the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin? The biggest ship ever to call North America came to Oakland. Thanks to a surge in agricultural exports and import growth, the Oakland Seaport reached an all-time record of 1.83 million 20-foot containers. The Port and its partners added night gates, appointment systems and mobile apps to measure trucker turn times, all contributing to improving seaport efficiency and the working environment for truckers.
Speaking of the environment, elected officials, business partners, government agencies, and community advocates came together to celebrate a 98 percent drop in truck diesel emissions at the Seaport over the last decade. This is good news because it contributes to cleaner air and healthier communities.
Been to the Port of Oakland’s Jack London Square lately? If you have, then you’ve experienced its vibrancy with more than 55 free public events like the autumn Eat Real Festival and the holiday tree lighting ceremony. The Square continued to be a center of celebration for locals and tourists attracting more than 3 million visitors!
Ready to pack a bag for Hawaii, North America, Mexico or Europe? Twelve million passengers chose Oakland International Airport (OAK) in 2016! Southwest, Norwegian and other airlines added more flights at the Airport. And Port staff added a new air service at OAK announcing British Airways flights to London launching in 2017.
Together the Port and its partners put tens of thousands of people to work in Oakland and the region.
That’s 2016, the Year In Review. For the Port of Oakland, I’m Marilyn Sandifur.
