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Port of Stockton accelerates clean energy and infrastructure projects
K irk DeJesus, Port Director for the Port of Stockton, started his update by noting that next year’s Annual Conference will give delegates an opportunity to learn about the Port in great detail. For this year’s update, DeJesus focused on major projects aimed at reducing emissions, strengthening rail infrastruc- ture, deepening the channel for better access, and expand- ing the Port’s regional logistics footprint. Starting with emission reduction efforts, DeJesus reported that Stockton received a $110-million EPA Clean Ports grant, which is helping to accelerate their transition to zero- emission cargo-handling equipment. “We have already con- verted about 40 percent of our cargo-handling equipment,” he said, “and this grant will effectively get us to 100 percent in the near future.” Rail infrastructure is another major focus for DeJesus. With 66 miles of rail inside port lands, the Port of Stockton currently handles over 55,000 railcars annually while rely- ing on a single track connecting to the national rail network. “We received funding under MARAD’s Port Infrastructure Development Program as well as the State of California’s Port and Freight Infrastructure Program that will support construction of additional track and rehabilitation of aging rail infrastructure,” he said. “That work will be starting within the next 18 months.” T he Pohnpei Port Authority is preparing for a signifi- cant expansion aimed at strengthening cargo-hand- ling capacity, improving operational efficiency and accommodating future maritime demands in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Presenting an update on behalf of the Pohnpei Port Authority, Seaport Manager Baron Mendiola, accompanied by General Manager Grilly Jack, highlighted current oper- ations as well as the major port expansions. Current operations continue to be effective with cargo handling and berth assignments remaining steady. Mendiola noted several trends affecting Pacific island ports, including growing demand for digital documentation and stronger emphasis on maritime safety and regulatory compliance. “The challenges for small ports is that we need to improve and upgrade cargo handling equipment while ensuring infrastructure upgrades balance efficiency with environ- mental considerations,” he said, adding that, for Pohnpei, additional priorities include improving channel depth and width to accommodate larger vessels, especially U.S.
DeJesus then reported on a longstanding challenge within the Port of Stockton – that of maintaining and deep- ening its shipping channel. “The Stockton Deepwater Channel is authorized to a 35-foot depth but has histor- ically been unable to provide the authorized depth, with 33.8 feet being our current controlling depth. It makes a significant difference,” he said, noting that limited depth
Kirk DeJesus, Port of Stockton
can affect potential new business opportunities. Working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, DeJesus reported that they are making good progress recently and is hopeful that they’ll reach the authorized depth within the next couple of years. In terms of expanding the Port’s regional logistics foot- print, the Port is pursuing the acquisition of 500 acres known as Sharpe Army Depot in Lathrop, CA , adjacent to Interstate 5 and Union Pacific rail lines, potentially creating a major regional distribution center. “We hope to start on the lease agreement within the next few months and then continue to work through the conveyance,” he concluded.
Pohnpei expansion to strengthen capacity and regional connectivity military vessels and cruise ships while addressing ris- ing fuel costs and natural disasters.
A major step toward addressing these needs is already underway with a grant-funded expansion val- ued at approximately US$30 million, the largest grant ever received for an FSM port. The project includes con-
Baron Mendiola, Pohnpei Port Authority
struction of a new 500-foot quay, a 400-metre access road with concrete pavement and a 90-metre container yard with coral reclamations. Completion is expected in April 2028. The new infrastructure will mark a turning point for Pohnpei as it positions the port to meet future demands while ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability, as well as providing a stronger foundation for future collaborations.
October 2026 — PACIFIC PORTS — 13
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