Sold-out event highlights resilience, investment, and community partnerships
Oakland, Calif. – February 6, 2026: Port of Oakland Executive Director Kristi McKenney outlined the Port’s progress, challenges, and opportunities during her first annual State of the Port keynote address, sponsored by the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association and Women in Logistics. The sold-out, livestreamed event (https://youtu.be/lOVaAtCf8zI) was held this week in Jack London Square.
McKenney thanked more than 275 business, community, and elected partners in attendance for their collaboration to advance the Bay Area economy.
“We are proud the Port of Oakland supports nearly 100,000 regional jobs and serves as a vital economic engine for the East Bay and greater Bay Area,” McKenney said. “None of it is possible without our partners.”
Maritime: Stability and Infrastructure Investment
McKenney said maritime operations remained steady year-over-year — outperforming expectations due in part to the Port’s balanced import-export strategy.
“Our 50/50 cargo mix protects us from extreme market swings and continues to build resilience,” she said.
Looking ahead, the Port anticipates economic improvement in 2026, including construction of new 450-foot-tall cranes at TraPac Terminal and continued progress on the Turning Basins Widening Project. The Port is also accelerating decarbonization efforts by transitioning to zero-emissions cargo equipment and trucks and strengthening its electrical grid with renewable and carbon-free power. These efforts are all being undertaken in close collaboration and partnership with a wide range of West and East Oakland community members and organizations who continue to advance the $322 million Clean Ports federal grant that the Port received in 2024.
Aviation: Enhancing Passenger Experience and Cargo Strength
While passenger volumes continue to recover post-pandemic, McKenney said the Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) is adapting with major terminal and customer amenity upgrades and expanded dining and retail options reflecting the East Bay. The airport has also launched a Guest Pass program allowing non-ticketed visitors past security, with more than 1,400 passes issued in its first 50 days.
OAK remains Northern California’s largest cargo airport, with partners UPS and FedEx supporting thousands of jobs and critical infrastructure investment.
Commercial Real Estate: Revitalizing the Waterfront and Beyond
McKenney highlighted renewed opportunity at Jack London Square following passage of state legislation that can open the door to expanded retail and leasing uses.
“We can now create a vibrant mix of businesses that build community and a true sense of place,” she said.
Upcoming openings include Dave & Buster’s and Reem’s Bakery. The Port is also advancing plans to reopen the Waterfront Hotel and recently announced proposals to restore maritime activity and develop a soccer stadium at the Howard Terminal property site.
At the Airport Business Park, new tenants and major projects are underway, including WattEV’s Northern California electric truck charging facility.
Driving Oakland’s Economic Future
McKenney emphasized the scale of current and planned investment.
“Across our operations and development portfolio, the Port and our partners are committing hundreds of millions of dollars over the next five years — driving job creation, sustainability, and long-term economic growth for Oakland,” she said. Proceeds from the event benefit Women in Logistics’ scholarship fund and the Oakland International Maritime Center.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits, and environmental innovation as it decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports more than 98,000 regional jobs and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees the Oakland Airport (OAK), the Oakland Seaport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront, including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port of Oakland is Everyone’s Port! Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland Airport through Facebook and Twitter or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
Media Contacts
Matt Davis
Port of Oakland
Chief Public Engagement Officer
(510) 627-1430
[email protected]
Justin Berton
Port of Oakland
Director of Communications
(510) 627-1401
[email protected]