The official magazine of the Association of Pacific Ports with a focus on issues, activities and updates for Ports encircling the Pacific Ocean.
Volume 6 Issue 3
www.pacificports.org
October/November 2025
Industry Insight Ports Update session emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and collaboration
Cybersecurity Bridging the IT–OT divide in ports
Conference Recap One Waterway, Two Legal Systems: Navigating the legal complexities of North American ports
Port Technology Digitizing the Dock
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 1
Long Beach has been named Best West Coast Seaport in North America for a seventh straight year by readers of Asia Cargo News. Our operational excellence and digital cargo tools make us the premier gateway for trans-Pacific trade. Best in the West
Meet you in the middle!
APP’s 2026 Winter Conference January 28 to 30, 2026 — Honolulu, Hawaii
As the half-way point for APP Members on both sides of the Pacific, Hawaii provides the perfect location for our Winter Conference. Our 2026 Conference will be held at the Kahala Resort in Honolulu, Hawaii, providing an engaging agenda with plenty of networking opportunities... In one of the most beautiful spots on earth!
www.PacificPortsConference.com
A BIG THANKS TO SPONSORS OF THE APP’S 111 TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE! One Ocean — Shared Vision
www.PacificPortsConference.com
CONTENTS
October/November 2025
Volume 6 Issue 3
42 CYBERSECURITY
Bridging the IT–OT divide in ports By Walter Anderson
45 PORT TECHNOLOGY Digitizing the Dock
12
How Wabtec’s Port Community System is reinventing global supply chains
45 SHIP TECHNOLOGY
Kongsberg Maritime launches the TTH Tunnel Thruster series for improved performance and maintenance
6 APP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 7 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE By Jane McIvor 8 INDUSTRY BRIEFS News briefs from APP Members 12 INDUSTRY INSIGHT Ports Update session emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and collaboration 21 NEW MEMBER PROFILE
25 MEMORIES
APP’s 111 th Annual Conference photos 29 NEW MEMBER PROFILE GRT Regenerock provides sustainable remediation solution 30 CONFERENCE RECAP Racing toward the future
48 BEST PRACTICES
Electric power drives Liebherr’s latest crane deliveries to Italy 50 MARINE TECHNOLOGY
MarineLabs receives $4 Million investment to enable coastal AI at scale
How DP World is re-engineering the global port industry
51 APP MEMBERS
34 CONFERENCE RECAP Building bridges
How collaboration and community are redefining port development in B.C.
Xanatos Marine leads the way in building smarter, safer, and more sustainable ports
37 CONFERENCE RECAP Short sea shipping and supply chain innovation in B.C. 40 CONFERENCE RECAP
22 CONFERENCE RECAP One Waterway, Two Legal Systems
50
Navigating the legal complexities of North American ports
People, pilots, and progress Building the next-generation workforce
On the cover: Port of Nanaimo’s Harbour (courtesy Port of Nanaimo) ; Top: APP President and Port of Nanaimo CEO Ian Marr (credit Dirk Heydmann); Bottom right: MarineLabs’ CoastAware
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 5
Association of Pacific Ports 2025/26 Executive Committee
Publisher Association of Pacific Ports Executive Director & Editor Jane McIvor Contributors October/November 2025 Volume 6/Issue 3
Peter Amat Mike Carter
Walter Anderson
Scott Beatty Kirk DeJesus Alan Goldstein Tiger Huang Maksim Mihic Von Rodriguez Colin Stansfield Peter Swanson Sharon Weissman Deanna Woods Celina Zacarias
Conchita Taitano, Vice Chairperson Port Authority of Guam, Guam USA
Jerra Cing
Lindsay Familton Donna Hais Steve Kennedy Colby Miller Shailendra Shukla
Fred Felleman Paul Hilder Jason Michell Rory Respicio Julie Sperber
OFFICERS Conchita Taitano, President
Port Authority of Guam, Guam USA Kirk DeJesus, First Vice President, Port of Stockton, CA USA Barney Sene, Second Vice President, American Samoa Department of Port Administration Zoran Knezevic / Mike Carter, Third Vice President, Port Alberni Port Authority, BC Canada Ian Marr, Past President, Port of Nanaimo REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES Chan-Jung Chang, Taiwan International Ports Corporation, Ltd., Taiwan Ian Marr, Port of Nanaimo, BC Canada Sara Young / Kevin Ware, Port of Skagit, WA USA Sharon Weissman, Port of Long Beach, CA USA Jerry Nathan, Republic of Marshall Islands, Marshall Islands Manuel Fernando Gutiérrez Gallardo, General Coordinator of POrts and Merchant Marine, Mexico AT-LARGE REPRESENTATIVE Kim B. Puzey, Port of Umatilla, OR USA Esther Ada, Commonwealth Ports Authority, Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands USA Chin-Jung Wang, Taiwan International Ports Corporation, Ltd., Taiwan STAFF Jane McIvor (jane@pacificports.org) Philippe Critot (philippe@pacificports.org) The APP has been committed to building partnerships, facilitat- ing dialogue, and encouraging best practices for port governance and management throughout the Pacific since it was established in 1913 as the Pacific Coast Association of Port Authorities. Throughout our 100+-year history, our objectives have remained consistent. With a focus on collaboration, the APP strives to encourage and facilitate best practices and profes- sional development through conferences, workshops annd strong communications.
Tom Stiger Blair Tassone John White Sarah Young
Mathew Stradiotti
Kevin Volk
Kelly Williams
Peter Xotta
Advertising Phone: 323-578-2452 Philippe Critot (philippe@pacificports.org) Editorial & Association business Phone: 604-893-8800
ASSOCIATION OF PACIFIC PORTS
Jane McIvor (jane@pacificports.org) Contents copyrighted 2025 Association of Pacific Ports 300 - 1275 West 6th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada V6H 1A6
Phone: 604-893-8800 / E-mail: jane@pacificports.org The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the Publisher. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher. EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to the international nature of our membership, spelling within each article remains consistent to the country of origin. ADVERTISERS APP 2025 Annual Conference Sponsors.........................................4 APP 2026 Winter Conference......................................................3/49 Interferry......................................................................................... BC Port of Long Beach........................................................................IFC Port of San Diego.............................................................................11
6 — PACIFIC PORTS — October/November 2025
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE
Full marks for Nanaimo
B y all accounts, the APP’s 111 th Annual Conference in Nanaimo, British Columbia, could not have been more successful. The Port of Nanaimo receives full marks for hosting a conference that saw strong participation (the highest attendance for any APP conference in recent history), strong sponsorship (again, the highest in recent history), and a strong and relevant agenda. Comments from our exit survey confirmed our own evaluation: “Very well done. I was able to get a lot out of attending...”; “Very interesting and informative”; “All sessions were very informative”; “Good discussion”; “Had APP PORT MEMBERS
a great time!”...and many more with the same sentiment. One of the main priorities for our Annual Conferences is to shine a spot- light on the Host Port — and again, full marks to Nanaimo for developing a program that not only highlighted operations and projects under the Port’s jurisdiction but showcased activ- ities on B.C.’s coast as well as the sur- rounding natural beauty of Vancouver Island. As I said, full marks. This issue of Pacific Ports Magazine provides a number of summaries of presentations from the Conference — among those selected are ones that continue the focus on the maritime
industry in Nanaimo and the B.C. coast. Members from all areas of the Pacific will be able to relate to the issues raised during panel sessions and presen- tations. Learning all we can about one region allows all ports to benefit from best practices and lessons learned and the Port of Nanaimo has done very well in demonstrating innovative ideas. Now! On to Hawaii for our 2026 Winter Conference — January 28 to 30, 2026 — followed by the APP’s 112 th Annual Conference in Guam in August 2026! The Guam team is already dis- cussing ideas with great enthusiasm. I hope you’ll join us for both! — Jane McIvor
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 7
INDUSTRY BRIEFS
Conchita Taitano, Port Authority of Guam, elected as new president of the APP T he Association of Pacific Ports (APP) is pleased to welcome Conchita Taitano as our newly
Future and was appointed as a Private Sector Advisor on the US Delegation to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) IGR-2 meeting in Beijing. Additionally, she has served as a technical resource for training events sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and USEPA across the Pacific and Southeast Asia regions. Ms. Taitano holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and Master of Science in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco. She holds a Professional Certificate in Sustainability from MIT, where she received the Fire Hydrant Award for her group’s Impact Project for Mexico City, and she has completed advanced certifications in Environmental Policy Making and Negotiations from UNESCO Water Institute in the Delft, Netherlands, and Environment and Sustainable Development from the United Nations University in Tokyo, Japan. In accepting the president’s role for APP, Ms. Taitano recognized the importance of the Association, noting that: “For Pacific Islanders, the Ocean is not something that separates us. It connects us. It is our teacher, our pathway and our shared inheritance. This is what the Association of Pacific Ports represents – a family of ports and communities tied not just by shipping lanes or economic activity, but by common purpose. Whether we are managing massive terminals or small island ports, we all play a vital role in the sustainability and secur- ity of our respective region, country, home and family.” Joining Ms. Taitano on the APP Executive Committee for the 2025/26 year, are:
elected President. Representing the Port Authority of Guam, Ms. Taitano assumes the role following the ten- ure of Ian Marr, President and CEO of the Port of Nanaimo, host of the recent APP 111th Annual Conference. “Guam is honored with this oppor- tunity to lead,” said Ms. Taitano, adding that she was looking forward to welcoming Association members to Guam for the APP’s 112th Annual Conference in August 2026. Serving on the Port Authority of Guam Board of Directors since 2022, Ms. Taitano, currently Vice- Chairperson for the Board, leads the portfolios of Port Sustainability and Climate Change Resilience, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) development, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. She was the focal point for Guam’s ground- breaking Zero Waste Plan and served as Executive Director of the Zero Waste Working Group under guberna- torial appointment. After over 30 years of service, Ms. Taitano retired from the Guam Environmental Protection Agency and was the former Air and Land Division Administrator. Her extensive involve- ment in environmental affairs includes serving as the 45th President of the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials from 2019-2020, becoming the first individual from the U.S. territories and of color to hold this position. Internationally, she served as Special Representative on Research & Knowledge Management for the Micronesian Center for a Sustainable
Officers President – Conchita Taitano (Guam) First Vice President/Treasurer – Kirk DeJesus (Stockton, California) Second Vice President – Barney Sene/ Tumua Matuu (American Samoa) Third Vice President – Zoran Knezevic (Port Alberni, British Columbia) Past President – Ian Marr (Nanaimo, British Columbia) Regional Representatives Chan-Jung Chang (Taiwan) – Asia Ian Marr (Nanaimo) – Northwest – B.C./ AK Sara Young / Kevin Ware (Skagit, WA) – Northwest U.S. – WA/OR Sharon Weissman (Long Beach, CA) – Southern California Jerry Nathan (Republic of Marshall Islands) – Pacific Islands Captain Manuel Fernando Gutiérrez Gallardo (Mexico) – Mexico At-Large Representatives Kim B. Puzey (Oregon) Esther Ada (Commonwealth Northern Mariana Islands) Chin-Jung Wang (Taiwan) Associate Member Sub-Committee Representatives Jeannie Beckett, The Beckett Group Joe Carrillo, SSA Marine
8 — PACIFIC PORTS — October/November 2025
INDUSTRY BRIEFS
Port of Long Beach CEO to chart new course at year’s end L ongtime Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero — who led the Port through an era
parallel with growth of the Port’s eco- nomic benefits, such as 2.7 million jobs nationwide today tied to trade mov- ing through Long Beach. The 20 years being commemorated started with the Green Port Policy proposed by then- Commissioner Cordero circa 2005. “I could not be more grateful for what has been the opportunity of a lifetime to lead the Port of Long Beach over these past several years. While I’ll miss being in the center of the action for international trade, I know that I’m leaving the Port in the very capable hands of our Board of Harbor Commissioners and the exem- plary staff,” said Cordero. “It’s been a very rewarding experience and I have amassed wonderful memories that I will cherish forever.” “It’s been an honor to work with Mario. His vision, experience and enthusiasm have served him — and the Port — very well during his time as CEO. His calm and reassuring manner was a great source of strength for the workforce, industry and com- munity before, during and after the global pandemic,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna. “He will be missed at the Port, but I’m very happy for him to soon begin enjoying his well-deserved retirement.” He was appointed to the Board of Harbor Commissioners in 2003 by then-Long Beach Mayor Beverly O’Neill and reappointed in 2009 by then-Mayor Bob Foster, serving as both President and Vice President of the Board during his tenure. It was during his time on the Harbor Commission that he proposed the Green Port Policy, a commitment by the Port to environ- mental sustainability that was ratified in 2005. The action was a turning point for the Port, which committed to
of rapid cargo growth, a global pan- demic and major modernization — announced this week he will retire at the end of 2025, capping a varied career that included an 8½-year run as Port CEO, seven years on the Federal Maritime Commission in Washington, D.C. and eight years as a member of the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners. Known for bold and industry-lead- ing stances promoting environmental sustainability and boosting market competitiveness, as well as his tireless and optimistic outlook, Cordero has also become a noted thought leader in international trade in great demand for speaking engagements, media inter- views and service on public boards of directors. As CEO of the Port of Long Beach, reporting to the five-mem- ber Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners, Cordero leads a staff of about 600 professionals who improve, market and secure one-half of the nation’s largest trade gateway. In addition to his port industry career accomplishments, he is an attorney and educator. Cordero in May 2017 said he was blessed to have landed a “dream job” when he was selected as the new chief executive of the Port of Long Beach, returning to Long Beach after his stint as an appointee of President Barack Obama to the body that oversees the nation’s maritime policy. His time on the FMC beginning in 2011 included four years as chairman. He steps down at the end of a yearlong celebration marking two decades of the Port’s environmental progress — “20 Years of Leading Green” — achieved in
considering the environment in all of its decisions going forward — leading to dramatically cleaner air, healthier harbors and today’s goal of seeking zero-emissions operations. Cordero, the Los Angeles-born son of Mexican immigrants, was the first in his family to attend college, and his father urged him to pursue engineer- ing as a career. The young Cordero however came to the realization that he wanted to become a lawyer to make a difference in society, given the call for activism in the early 1970s. He earned a Bachelor of Science in political science from California State University, Long Beach, before going on to earn a law degree at the University of Santa Clara. He practiced law for more than 30 years, and also taught political sci- ence part-time for many years at Long Beach City College. In addition to his Port responsibil- ities, Cordero was appointed by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco to serve on the bank’s Los Angeles branch seven-member board of direc- tors effective Jan. 1, 2021. In 2025, for the seventh consecutive year, he was named to the Los Angeles Business Journal’s “LA500” list of the city’s most influential civic leaders. The Board of Harbor Commissioners will determine a process for replacing Cordero in the months ahead.
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 9
INDUSTRY BRIEFS
EA instrumental to landmark EPA PFAS Incineration Study E A Engineering, Science, and Technology, Inc., PBC (EA), a leading provider of interdisci-
and executing the test plan, applying stringent quality assurance proto- cols and maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity. The study featured comprehensive mass balance calculations, process mon- itoring, and emissions sampling to ensure data quality and transparency. EA’s John Kumm, PE; Pavan Challa, PhD; Steve Yankay; Mahsa Modiri, PhD, PE; and Sanita Corum are among the report’s co-authors. “This study marks a significant milestone in our understanding of PFAS destruction technologies,” said McNew. “The results show that, under the right conditions, hazardous waste incinerators can effectively destroy a wide range of PFAS, including those of greatest concern for human health and the environment. We are proud to support EPA’s mission and to con- tribute to the science that will inform future PFAS management and policy decisions.” The EPA report details the meth- ods, results, and lessons learned from a multi-year, multi-phase testing pro- gram. Key findings include: • Hazardous Waste Incinerators can effectively destroy a wide range of PFAS under tested conditions, with measured stack gas concentrations generally below 25.0 nanograms per cubic meter, and process resi- dues below 101 nanograms per gram.
plinary environmental services, was a key contributor to the recent study that led to publication of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) comprehensive report, PFAS Destruction by a Hazardous Waste Incinerator: Testing Results. This study represents the most exten- sive evaluation to date of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction in a full-scale hazard- ous waste incinerator, conducted at the Clean Harbors Environmental Services hazardous waste incinerator facility in Aragonite, Utah. The research, conducted in collabor- ation with the EPA Office of Research and Development, the Department of Defense Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program, and a multidisciplinary team, dem- onstrates that hazardous waste incin- eration can achieve destruction and removal efficiencies for PFAS as high as 99.9999 percent. The study’s find- ings provide critical data for regu- lators, industry, and communities seeking effective solutions for PFAS management. EA played a leading role in the planning, execution, and interpreta- tion of the study. The team’s efforts encompassed research and analyses, coordination of field sampling and laboratory analysis, and rigorous data validation. In addition to sup- porting test execution, EA’s tech- nical team conducted detailed data evaluation and calculations to ensure that results fully reflected the study’s findings. Under the leadership of Vice President Jason McNew and Project Manager Erica Thieleman, EA played a pivotal role in designing
of incomplete destruction under the high PFAS spike loads. • Mass balance analysis and anom- alous hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid detections in the stack samples and ash highlight the need for further research on the fate of a broader range of PFAS in similar systems, as well as comprehensive feed characterization to enable accurate mass balance closure. • Ambient air dispersion modeling showed that predicted ambient con- centrations of PFAS were several orders of magnitude below applic- able state regulatory standards. EA continues to advance PFAS research, including ongoing projects focused on developing and evaluating treatment options for PFAS in drink- ing water. These efforts are critical as communities nationwide seek reliable, science-based solutions to address PFAS contamination and protect pub- lic health. The report (in PDF format) is avail- able here.
• Destruction and Removal Efficiency for the 9 spiked
PFAS ranged from 99.95% to 99.9999%, with similar results for indicator compounds such as hexafluoroethane. • Trace levels of carbon tetrafluoride, detected near analytical limits, sug- gest possible formation of products
10 — PACIFIC PORTS — October/November 2025
INDUSTRY BRIEFS
New Director General of Ports for Mexico announced Head of the Maritime Traffic Control Center, Protection Officer, Loading Master, she has also sailed on various merchant ships, in deep-sea navigation and cabotage.
T he Secretariat of the Navy, through the General Coordi- nation of Ports and Merchant Marine (CGPMM), announced that Captain Manuel Fernando Gutiérrez Gallardo has overseen the appoint- ment of Captain María Marisa Abarca Hernández as the new Director General of Ports, effective October 1. Captain Abarca studied at the Merchant Nautical School of Tampico, completed a Specialty in Management of Educational Institutions at the Universidad Panamericana and has more than 30 years of experience in the Merchant Navy in the areas of maritime transport and ports; since 2007 she has held operational and decision-making positions in the Federal Public Administration, in Port Administrations and Terminals; as Congratulations to the Port Authority of Guam on 50 years of Port Strong! T he Association of Pacific Ports extends heartfelt congratula- tions to the Port Authority of Guam on the celebration of their 50 th Anniversary Established as an autonomous agency in 1975, Guam’s commercial seaport has grown from modest facilities into the island’s lifeline, maintaining oper- ations through typhoons and global disruptions while supporting Indo- Pacific readiness.
With regard to the Secretariat of the Navy, she served as Executive Director of Maritime Port Priority Projects, attached to the General Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine, and in the General Directorate of Ports itself, serving as responsible for the attributions as Port Authority in the more than 11 thousand kilometers of coastline in Mexico. 103 ports and 15 terminals enabled. Her last assign- ment was as Director of Business Development for the Americas, at Boluda Towage, a leading company in maritime transport and port towing services.
Captain María Marisa Abarca Hernández
This appointment is given under the terms established by the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States and the laws that are derived from it.
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 11
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Ports Update session emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and collaboration
O ne of the most important agenda items at Association of Pacific Ports’ Conferences is the Port Updates Session during which port representatives provide updates and insights into activities within their jurisdiction. Recurring themes often become apparent, giving attendees a true snapshot of the issues and opportunities in the industry. This year was no different. Pacific ports are redefining what it means to be global gateways — embra- cing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to keep trade flowing. As maritime leaders confront shifting supply chains, decarbonization pres- sures, and the need for skilled workers, their shared vision is clear: to build a smarter, greener, and more resilient Pacific network for the future. Commonwealth Ports Authority On behalf of the Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA) of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Jerra Cing introduced the newest members of the CPA team – Dolores Kiyoshi, CPA Board Member and Seaport Facilities Chairperson, and Esther Ada, newly appointed CPA
Pacific ports are redefining what it means to be global gateways — embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration...
Port Alberni Port Authority Newly appointed Co-CEO Mike Carter provided an update on behalf of the Port Alberni Port Authority. He began by noting that one of the main exports of the Port — forest products — went through some challenging years, forcing the Port to diversify to other marine sectors, including five marinas with both commercial fishing
Executive Director. Noting that the CPA manages six facilities, including airports and seaports on three islands, Cing started by recognizing the con- tributions of CNMI Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios who passed away in July. “He provided great support to the CPA in our efforts to improve condi- tions at our ports,” she said. Cing reported that the CPA recently underwent various assessments with the goal of developing a terminal infra- structure master plan. The assessments are reviewing the conditions of all six facilities and will provide a variety of options for future development, includ- ing funding opportunities. “We’re also looking for more cost-effective trans- portation methods between all three islands,” Cing said. “This will include an assessment of a terminal ferry sys- tem between all three islands and potentially reaching out to our sister island of Guam to collaborate.”
Jerra Cing, Commonwealth Ports Authority
Mike Carter, Port Alberni Port Authority
12 — PACIFIC PORTS — October/November 2025
I N D UP SOTRRTYUI PNDS IAGTHE TS
and recreational vessels, a 250-site campground and over 100 land and water lot leases which now house businesses such as ship repair, water bottling, and seafood processing. The shift to other economies has been a successful strat- egy for the Port, noted Carter. “We see a lot of commer- cial and recreational traffic through Port Alberni attracted by the location being one of the best fisheries on the West Coast,” he said, adding that the campground became one of their most successful money-makers, especially during COVID when tourism travel habits changed. Of the lease properties, Carter described a transformation on the waterfront. “We had an old warehouse used for stor- age and a derelict fish plant that has since been revitalized and we now have eight anchor tenants with an expansion project underway to increase space by another 3,600 square feet that will include a high-pressure processing unit that automates oyster shucking. The oysters are then cryogenic- ally frozen, extending their shelf life by up to 30 extra days.” In addition to the innovations being seen in the seafood processing sector, Carter reported that the Port was looking at options to increase ship building and repair as well as ship recycling to capitalize on existing facilities. Port Authority of Guam General Manager Rory Respicio spoke on behalf of the Port Authority of Guam (PAG) and introduced Conchita Taitano, Vice Chair, and Joe Javellana, Chief Planner before providing an update on activities. He also recognized the attendance of Associate Members Annmarie Muna and Tricia Granillo with AM Insurance located in Guam. Noting that the Port is responsible for 90 percent of goods imported and exported onto the Island, Respicio added that they are also responsible for national security. “Over the last several years, our Master Plan has highlighted the fact that if the port is not ready, then the military will not be ready,” he said before describing initiatives achieved and underway. Respicio started by thanking Ms. Taitano whose efforts secured a $2.4-million Clean Ports Grant for decarboniza- tion efforts and sustainability projects. He then described the Glass Breakwater project in Apra Harbor — a $573-mil- lion military construction project that will restore infra- structure (both military and civilian) damaged by Typhoon Mawar. The project started in April 2025 and is expected to take roughly four years to complete. Respicio described negotiations with Black Construction Corporation, the contractor for the Glass Breakwater pro- ject, that resulted in a four-year lease valued at over $10.5 million, covering more than 374,000 square feet of port property with significant investment made toward the Port’s ongoing mission to modernize infrastructure, enhance
Work is now underway to restore the Glass Breakwater that protects Apra Harbor, Guam.
security and support both current and future operations critical to Guam and the broader region. “At the end of the four-year project, we will see the entire area returned to the port where we can create potential commercial revenue for years to come,” he said. Port of Everett
Tom Stiger, Commis- sioner from the Port of Everett, started by not- ing that, as new Port Members, this was his first annual meeting. He was pleased to be able to
contribute to the discussion. “Everett is located approxi- mately 30 miles north of Seattle where we operate three lines of business: our international seaport, the largest public mar- ina on the West Coast, with the largest public boat launch in Washington, and real estate development,” he said, add- ing that the marine terminal sector of the Port represented about 70 percent of port revenue. Looking first at the marine terminals, Stiger noted that in addition to handling breakbulk cargo and containers, the
October/November 2025 — PACIFIC PORTS — 13
PORT UPDATES
“To date, the Port of Hueneme has invested $122 million in environmental projects and has $205 million in active grants to advance its green initiatives,” she said.
“Being sustainable, growing our workforce, and strengthening our partnerships—that’s what keeps the Port of Hueneme thriving,” Zacarias concluded. Port of Long Beach Port of Long Beach Commissioner Sharon Weissman highlighted the port’s record-breaking cargo perform- ance and two decades of environmental innovation. Joining Weissman were Commissioner Bonnie Lowenthal, immediate past president of the Board of Harbor Commissioners, and Executive Officer to the Board, Shana Espinoza. Weissman reported that the Port of Long Beach saw historic cargo volumes in early 2025 as retailers accelerated shipments ahead of new tariffs. The Port handled more containerized cargo than any other U.S. port in the first four months of the year, with April marking its busiest month on record and July ranking as the third busiest month in the Port’s 114-year history. Despite global trade uncertainties, Weissman said the Port continues to “carry on,” especially as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their ground- breaking Green Port Policy. According to a newly released Green Port Progress Report, the Port of Long Beach has achieved dramatic environmental gains while significantly growing cargo volumes. For example, diesel emissions have been cut by 92 percent, nitrogen oxides by 71 percent, sulfur oxides by 98 percent, and greenhouse gases by 17 percent—all while increasing cargo volumes by 20 percent. Weissman showed a video that highlighted additional results of the Port’s Green Port Policy, including investments in programs such as ves- sel speed reduction and incentives to use alternative fuels and shore power; the Clean Truck Program which has replaced more than 15,000 trucks to the cleanest available diesel models
terminal would see opportunities from the Boeing manufacturing facility which will be adding a new 737 line. The addition will create import and export opportunities as well as new jobs for the community. He also reported on the Port’s Waterfront Place — the site of several former lumber shingle mills that has been developed over the years. The site, located next to Naval Station Everett, is being developed to include apartments, hotels, restaurants, office space, recrea- tion areas and, when completed, will amount to a $1 billion in public/private investment and will support over 2,100 family-wage jobs in the community. Port of Hueneme Commissioner Celina Zacarias of the Port of Hueneme shared an upbeat update on the port’s sustain- ability goals, global trade progress, and workforce development efforts. The Port of Hueneme continues to distinguish itself as the West Coast’s leading importer of bananas and blue- berries and ranks fifth nationally for both automobiles and fresh produce. “We’ve got some exciting things going
on at the port,” Zacarias said, noting the port’s growing role in international trade and environmental leadership. A centerpiece of her remarks was the Port’s commitment to reaching Zero Emissions status by 2030. Recent prog- ress includes the deployment of a second emissions capture and control barge, the use of electric cranes, forklifts, and a new electric sweeper, as well as the installation of two additional air qual- ity monitors in collaboration with the regional district and local schools. “To date, the Port has invested $122 million in environmental projects and has $205 million in active grants to advance port modernization and innovative infra- structure projects,” she said. Expanding international connec- tions, Zacarias was pleased to report on the port’s new sister-port relationship with the Port of Paita, Peru, following a State Department trade mission. The Port of Hueneme is now the only West Coast facility certified for cold treat- ment of Peruvian blueberries, marking a major milestone in agricultural trade. Workforce development also remains a key focus. Zacarias emphasized the importance of “growing our own” tal- ent by investing in local education. The Port is working with local elemen- tary schools, junior high schools, com- munity colleges, trades, nonprofits, and universities to build logistics and maritime career pathways, supported by a recent grant of $2 million for workforce development. Closing on a community note, Zacarias invited attendees to the Port’s 12th Annual Banana Festival on September 27, an event celebrat- ing the port’s signature import with banana-themed food, entertainment, and family activities.
Celina Zacarias, Port of Hueneme
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I N D UP SOTRRTYUI PNDS IAGTHE TS
...the Port of Long Beach has $3.2 billion in capital improvements planned over the next 10 years to bring clean energy to port operations...
Port of Nanaimo Donna Hais, Chair of the Port of Nanaimo Board, began by welcoming attendees to the Port. “We’re excited to be hosting this year’s Annual Conference and getting the oppor- tunity to highlight Port operations,” she said. She further noted that she had been a part of the Port’s Board for 10 years, during which time, she has witnessed tremendous growth and change. “When I first joined the board, our port was driven by the lum- ber industry,” she said. “Today, that landscape has completely changed — there’s no lumber, no sawmills. We’ve had to reinvent ourselves.” The Port has since embraced a dual focus: moving people and goods. Passenger transportation has become a defining part of its identity, thanks in large part to the success of Hullo Ferry, a high-speed catamaran service which recently celebrated its second anniversary. The service carried over 400,000 passengers in its first year, surpassing one million during its
second, connecting Central Vancouver Island with the mainland. “Nanaimo now has more BC Ferry terminals than any other community in British Columbia,” Hais said, underscoring Nanaimo’s role as a key transportation gateway for the nearly one million resi- dents of Vancouver Island — roughly 20 percent of B.C.’s population. On the commercial front, the Port has a crucial strategic role in the regional and international sup- ply chain. The Nanaimo Vehicle Processing Centre, developed in part- nership with SSA Marine, has been hugely successful and, in the last few months, the Port has partnered with DP World to undertake a major infra- structure project at Duke Point. While a current expansion project is increas- ing cargo-handling capacity from roughly 24,000 TEUs to 280,000 TEUs, a future growth strategy will allow the Port to expand even further — to 1.2 million TEUs, positioning Nanaimo as a significant player in Pacific trade.
cutting diesel pollution by 90 percent; and addressing on-dock emissions with nearly 21 percent of cargo-hand- ling equipment at the Port now running on zero-emission technology with a goal to have all cargo handling equipment and trucks serving the Port be zero emission. Indeed, more than half a bil- lion dollars is being invested in hydro- gen deployment, rail electrification and terminal upgrades. Weissman noted the achievements of the Port demonstrate “clean air and cargo growth can go hand in hand even as we navigate unprecedented changes in the global shipping industry.” She added the Port has $3.2 billion in cap- ital improvements planned over the next 10 years to bring clean energy to port operations and to expand their reach globally as evidenced by the green shipping corridors established with ports in Shanghai and Singapore that will see decarbonized trade routes. Beyond infrastructure, the Port of Long Beach is investing in the people who will shape its future. The Harbor Commission awarded a rec- ord $350,000 in scholarships this year to local high school and college stu- dents pursuing careers in international trade and logistics. That amount will increase to $400,000 next year as part of the port’s ongoing workforce development commitment.
Donna Hais, Port of Nanaimo reported on the success of the Nanaimo Vehicle Processing Centre in partnership with SSA Marine.
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On the environmental front, Felleman underscored the port’s aggressive push toward decarbonization and shore power expansion.
Suquamish and Muckleshoot Tribes to promote environmental stewardship, fisheries coordination, and workforce development. Looking ahead, Felleman noted the importance of balancing growth with community inter- ests as Seattle’s waterfront evolves. In a Seattle Times op-ed coauth- ored with Executive Director Steve Metruck (https://www.seattletimes. com/opinion/at-the-heart-of-seattles- waterfront-is-its-working-port/), he discusses the port’s investments in public access and urban coexistence. “Environmental responsibility isn’t just moral—it’s enlightened self-inter- est,” he said. “In a growing city like Seattle, maintaining our social license to operate is as vital as the cargo we move.” With expanding green infrastruc- ture, strong tribal partnerships, and a thriving cruise sector, the Port of Seattle continues to position itself as a model for sustainable, community- integrated maritime development on the West Coast. Port of Skagit Sarah Young, Executive Director for the Port of Skagit, highlighted the port’s diverse development initiatives — ranging from industrial growth and aviation expansion to historic revital- ization and tourism. Located in Skagit County, Washington, about 30 miles north of the Port of Everett, the Port of Skagit operates not as a shipping port but as a real estate and economic develop- ment agency. It manages 2,400 acres of industrial property across three locations, a 500-slip marina in La Conner, and a general aviation airport in Bayview Ridge. “Our bread and butter is really manufacturing — particularly aero- space, maritime manufacturing, and value-added agriculture,” Young said.
— a 10-year partnership between the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma that jointly manages the region’s container oper- ations. Together, the two ports move about 3.3 million TEUs annually via approximately 1,800 vessel visits. The Port of Seattle’s operations are highly diversified, encompassing cargo terminals, cruise facilities, the North Pacific fishing fleet, and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which handles 53 million passengers each year. The cruise sector remains a major economic driver, with 298 ship calls expected in 2025 and 1.9 mil- lion revenue passengers contributing roughly $900 million in local eco- nomic impact. On the environmental front, Felleman underscored the port’s aggressive push toward decarboniza- tion and shore power expansion. All three of Seattle’s cruise berths now fea- ture shore power capability, allowing ships to plug in and shut off engines while docked. Beginning in 2027, only cruise ships equipped for shore power will be permitted to call at the Port — a move Felleman described as a land- mark step in reducing emissions. Two major container terminals — Terminal 5 in Seattle and Husky Terminal in Tacoma — are also now shore power capable, and additional clean energy initiatives are supported by funding from Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act. The port continues to strengthen its ties with Indigenous communities, recently signing an agreement with the Puyallup Tribe to expand a breakbulk terminal on the Tribe’s property that will be co-managed with the NWSA in Tacoma. The Port also maintains memoranda of understanding with the
The Port’s growth has been made possible through strong public-private partnerships, including $46.5 million in federal funding and $15 million from the provincial government. These collaborations are enabling the Port to explore manufacturing expansion, rail revitalization, and job creation oppor- tunities that could further boost the island’s economy. “Our success is built on strategic partnerships—between all levels of government and our private partners,” Hais emphasized. “Without that collaboration, none of this prog- ress would have been possible.” Port of Seattle Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman highlighted the port’s continued leadership in sustain- able development, cruise expansion, and collaborative governance. He reflected on the shared economic and environmental goals between U.S. and Canadian ports, emphasizing that trade fosters peace and partnership. Now serving his third term as com- missioner, Felleman also represents the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA)
Fred Felleman, Port of Seattle
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The Port’s La Conner Marina hosts a shipbuilder that builds passenger fer- ries for the San Francisco Bay market, illustrating the strong regional and cross-border connections that under- pin the Port’s success. Over the past 15 years, the Port of Skagit has invested heavily in mod- ernizing the airport, bringing it up to jet-service capable standards. The next phase — a planned runway extension within five years — will help open Skagit County’s markets to global air access. The Port’s attention is now turn- ing to the aging infrastructure at the La Conner Marina, where they hope to launch a waterfront revitalization effort to ensure long-term sustainabil- ity and community benefit. “Marinas are challenging economic puzzles,” Young noted, “but La Conner is vibrant, and we’re optimistic about preserving its vitality for generations to come.” One of the port’s most ambi- tious undertakings is the redevel- opment of the SWIFT Center, a 225-acre campus that once housed the historic Northern State Hospital. Decommissioned in the 1970s, the site features a number of historic build- ings that the port hopes to repurpose for community and economic use — including an event center and possible tourism and recreation facilities. Because the project extends beyond the Port’s traditional mission, Young said success will depend on partner- ships with local governments, the State of Washington, private investors, and a potential new nonprofit entity to par- allel the Port and provide support for the property moving forward. “We’re the lead, but this is not some- thing the Port can do alone,” Young emphasized. “Revitalizing the SWIFT Center is about collaboration, herit- age, and creating opportunity for our community.”
Sarah Young, Port of Skagit
With a focus on sustainable growth, community revitalization, and strategic collaboration, the Port of Skagit is positioning itself as a model for how smaller ports can drive regional development...
Stockton spans 4,000 acres, making it the second-largest port in the state by land area. The Port primarily handles bulk and breakbulk cargo across its 15 berths and 75 miles of internal rail track, but is open to potential limited capacity container movements in the future. A key project under discussion is a $330 million private investment tied to exporting soda ash from Green River, Wyoming, to Asian markets— a development that could more than double the port’s cargo volume. “It’s significant for us,” DeJesus said, not- ing that the initiative depends on a $6 billion mine expansion in Wyoming. On the sustainability front, the Port received a $110-million EPA Clean Ports Grant in late 2024. The fund- ing — secured through a joint applica- tion with the Ports of Long Beach and Oakland — will enable Stockton to
Potential future plans also include the development of camping and rec- reational amenities to draw visitors traveling along the Highway 20 cor- ridor toward the North Cascades National Park and Mount Baker. With a focus on sustainable growth, community revitalization, and strategic collaboration, the Port of Skagit is positioning itself as a model for how smaller ports can drive regional development well beyond the waterfront. Port of Stockton Kirk DeJesus, Executive Director for the Port of Stockton, outlined a series of ambitious developments aimed at mod- ernizing operations, boosting exports, and advancing clean energy goals at California’s inland deep-water port. Located in Central California on the San Joaquin River, the Port of
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port. “Along with the Port of Nanaimo and others in the region, we facilitate the trade to many of the Asian com- munities and ports within the Pacific Rim which is currently presenting the biggest growth opportunity for the Port’s future,” he said. Roughly 70 percent of the Port’s vol- ume is focused on bulk commodities, including coal, sulfur, potash, and fer- tilizer. It also processes about 500,000 imported vehicles and 3.6 million con- tainers annually, alongside 1.3 million cruise revenue passengers from around 300 ship calls. “Our purpose as an organization is to enable trade by building a reliable supply chain for Canada,” said Xotta. “That means ensuring investment, reliability, and sustainability across all aspects of the Gateway — and we are seeing significant investment to achieve this.” Highlighting some of the Port’s recent investments, Xotta described the results of a $500 million Expansion Project at Centerm Container Terminal. Working with partner DP World, the project saw 600,000 TEUs of new capacity when it came online in late 2023. The project, Xotta said, is already improving efficiency, includ- ing through initiatives like the Gemini Cooperation (a long-term partnership between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd), which has significantly helped to improve vessel on-time performance across the West Coast. Xotta noted that the Port’s growth has also been accelerated by the Trans Mountain expansion, which has driven “the largest step-function vol- ume increase in our history”. Cargo throughput is projected to rise from 160 million to about 180 million tonnes within two years as new cap- acity comes online. On the sustainability front, the Port is piloting electric drayage trucks, expanding shore power with SSA
The Port of Stockton received a $110-million EPA Clean Ports Grant in late 2024.
In April 2025, the Port of Stockton marked the launch of its Renewable Fuels Terminal, operated by BWC Terminals — the first new fuels terminal built in California in nearly 30 years.
fully electrify nearly all cargo-handling equipment, building on earlier efforts that had already converted about 40 percent of its fleet. “This grant takes us close to 100 percent electrification,” DeJesus said, emphasizing the port’s strong public- private partnerships with SSA Marine and Marathon Petroleum. The initia- tive also includes plans for solar energy, battery storage, and workforce training infrastructure. In April 2025, the Port marked the launch of its Renewable Fuels Terminal, operated by BWC Terminals — the first new fuels terminal built in California in nearly 30 years. The facility will handle renewable diesel, biodiesel, and feed- stocks, creating 30 construction jobs and 18 permanent positions. However, not all clean energy efforts have gone smoothly. A pro- posed hydrogen manufacturing facility was proposed but, because it
was for gray hydrogen (i.e., carbon- based production) rather than green hydrogen, it faced opposition from environmental justice groups and was ultimately withdrawn after litigation. “It’s unfortunate,” DeJesus said. “The project will still happen, just out- side our gates. We’re hopeful green hydrogen will find a home here in the future.” Port of Vancouver The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Canada’s largest port, is undertaking major expansion and sus- tainability initiatives to strengthen the country’s Pacific trade network and accommodate record-breaking cargo growth, President and CEO Peter Xotta announced at a recent regional port gathering. Peter Xotta, President and CEO, provided an update for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Canada’s largest
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Marine to accommodate larger cruise vessels, and advancing its ECHO pro- gram to protect endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales through volun- tary vessel slowdowns. Looking ahead, Xotta emphasized the importance of the long-awaited Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project, a transformative 320-acre island expan- sion designed to dramatically boost Canada’s container handling cap- acity. After a decade of environmental reviews and permitting, the project is nearing approval. “We’re optimistic,” Xotta said, add- ing that he and DP World executives recently hosted the Prime Minister, who offered “very positive feedback” on the port’s trade infrastructure initia- tives. Once completed, Roberts Bank Terminal 2 will position Vancouver to meet surging demand from Asia-Pacific markets and further solidify Canada’s role as a key player in global trade. “We’re seeing tremendous growth opportunities along the West Coast,” Xotta said. “By expanding capacity and deepening partnerships, we’re ensuring Canada remains a leader in sustainable, reliable global commerce.” Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Von Rodriguez, Chief of Staff for the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), started by providing a brief overview, noting that the former Subic Naval Base had been the lar- gest U.S. military base outside of the American mainland up until its clos- ure in 1992 following the eruption of Mount Pinatubo and decision of the Philippine Senate to no longer renew the agreement for such use. Then came the establishment of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone out of the former Subic Naval Base and its contiguous exten- sion and with it was the creation of the SBMA as the administrator and oper- ator of the said Freeport.
Rendering of the proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 — Vancouver Fraser Port Authority CEO Peter Xotta noted the project would create a 320-acre island expansion to meet future needs.
manufacturers of semi-conductors and textiles, among others, whose supply chains rely on SBMA’s growing cargo infrastructure. The Subic Bay Freeport Zone is also reclaiming its position in shipbuilding, with a major global ship- builder beginning operations — reviv- ing the industry after the closure of Hanjin’s shipyard several years ago. Now, in line with the SBMA’s green agenda, several renewable energy pro- jects are also underway including a shore power project to reduce vessel emissions. In fact, the Freeport now houses an operational solar farm with a capacity of around 150 MW. Relatedly, the SBMA also recently procured electric buses for local trans- port and is developing port recep- tion and waste management facilities. Further, as another green initiative,
Once more reliant on real estate leases, SBMA’s revenues from its sea- port operations had grown and now has become its principal source of income. The SBMA had taken advan- tage of the Freeport’s major asset as a multi-modal port as it handles cargoes by land, air and sea. “This is driv- ing a new era of growth and sustain- ability,” Rodriguez said. “We are now one of the Philippines’ most dynamic Freeport and logistics hubs, generat- ing around four billion Philippine pesos annually (roughly $69 million US dollars.) and supports approximately 170,000 workers.” The Freeport’s container termin- als have a total current capacity of 600,000 TEUs, with plans to expand by another 300,000 TEUs in the coming years. The port also hosts
An overview of the facilities at Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority on the western coast of the Island of Luzon, the Phlippines.
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