Port of Oakland’s new Maritime Director shares outlook
Bryan Brandes seeks to grow capacity during pandemic
Oakland, Calif. – August 19, 2020: Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes today touted key projects to help the Port through the current global pandemic. In a video update, Mr. Brandes discussed long-term strategies to secure the Oakland Seaport's future. He pointed to the opening of a new logistics center, arrival of giant container cranes, and increasing cold storage capacity.
COVID-19 has slowed the container shipping industry in recent months. However, canceled ship sailings are on the decline at the Port of Oakland.
Mr. Brandes discussed key projects that will help the Port grow long-term capacity:
- Seaport logistics center opening later this year to speed up the transport of cargo to U.S. destinations;
- Giant cranes arriving in late 2020 to attract newer, bigger ships; and the
- Oakland’s ‘Cool Port’ facility doubling the Port's temperature-controlled storage and logistics capacity.
Mr. Brandes was appointed Maritime Director in June 2020. He arrived during the pandemic when the Port's overall container volume declined 2.3 percent from the previous year. A 25-year shipping industry veteran, he has worked with ocean carrier companies, port authorities, trucking companies, and rail partners. Mr. Brandes said the Port's biggest advantage is its strong customer relationships, which will remain key to future success.
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
Mike Zampa
Port of Oakland
Communications Director
(510) 627-1565
[email protected]
Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Port Spokesperson
(510) 627-1193
[email protected]
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