California State Transportation Secretary visits Port of Oakland
Officials discuss funding opportunities to strengthen the supply chain
Oakland, Calif. – October 4, 2022: California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) Secretary Toks Omishakin visited the Port of Oakland last week for a first-hand view of Port operations and to discuss enhancements to seaport facilities and promote sustainable transportation projects, including zero emissions and renewable energy programs.
Secretary Omishakin was accompanied by representatives from CalSTA, the Governor’s Office of Business Development (Go-Biz), the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, Caltrans District 4, and the California Association of Port Authorities.
The Port of Oakland is amongst the busiest ports in the U.S. and is an integral part of the regional and national economies, connecting to inland markets throughout the western U.S. as well as serving as a global gateway for California agricultural exports. The Port is seeking partnership and funding opportunities to relieve congestion throughout the Oakland supply chain and to plan for a decarbonized seaport operation.
“The Port of Oakland is a critical link in our state and national supply chain,” said CalSTA Secretary Toks Omishakin. “As California makes historic investments in our supply chain infrastructure under Governor Gavin Newsom, I look forward to continue working with the Port of Oakland to help create a safer, cleaner, more efficient and more equitable goods movement system that continues to power our economy.”
“The Port supports Governor Newsom and CalSTA’s commitment to addressing California’s supply chain challenges and achieving the state’s climate goals, said Port of Oakland Executive Director Danny Wan. “We appreciate the continued partnership with the state on opportunities that will improve cargo fluidity and bring more maritime business for the benefit of Oakland and the region.”
The Port’s effort to modernize its operations also include collaborating on a joint grant application with Caltrans and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for a transformative Green Power Microgrid project in the seaport. The award would provide charging capacity for EV trucks and cargo handling equipment and ensure the reliability and resiliency of local power to support zero-emissions seaport operations. The grant application is due in October, with funding recommendations from the California Transportation Commission expected next summer 2023.
New opportunities also include state funding that was approved in this year’s budget ‒ shepherded by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development – earmarked for supply chain data-related projects.
The seaport has ample capacity for growth to meet the region’s increasing cargo demands. Projects to augment port facilities include the redevelopment of the Outer Harbor, widening the turning basin, upgrading the electrical grid, and updating land use regulations. These projects, and others, will help reduce the carbon footprint of port activities, moving towards the goal of a zero-emissions facility.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland Seaport, Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port's 5-year strategic plan - Growth with Care - pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 84,000 jobs. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
Media Contacts
Robert Bernardo
Port of Oakland
Communications Director
(510) 627-1401
[email protected]
David DeWitt
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Specialist
(510) 627-1169
[email protected]
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