The port is currently developing the plan to use as a guide toward its next chapter of economic growth. The plan’s focus is on near-term actions, but aims to set Tacoma’s course for the next 10 to 15 years.
As part of the effort, the port is also examining its identity and has hired a company, BrandStrata, to support efforts to create a brand reflecting Tacoma’s strategic advantages over other ports.
Six overall goals are outlined in the plan, they include:
- Enhancing the port’s competitive position via means such as improving the port’s business assets, efficiency and cost competitiveness, and advancing the port’s market position in the international shipping industry.
- Bettering local and regional infrastructure connections via methods such as development of a long-range rail system plan and improving the operational performance of the major road corridors in and around the port.
- Improving the port’s financial performance through the creation of new bulk business, updating of the debt management plan and adjusting the port’s business and operating models to increase profit.
- Increasing workforce and organizational capabilities by optimizing the use of electronic records, strengthening the port’s performance management system to support employee growth, and reinvigorating the port’s safety program to reduce work-related injuries.
- Advancing the port’s environmental efforts by identifying and addressing environmental issues in advance of planned development, and partnering with customers to find solutions to environmental challenges, such as stormwater treatment.
- Strengthening the port’s connections with the surrounding community by strengthening relationships with civic and elected leaders in communities affected by the port’s activities, increasing public awareness about the port and its work, and using strategic partnerships to advance regional economic development priorities.
The two open houses on the strategic plan are scheduled for 4:30 pm Mon., Feb. 13 at the Fabulich Center in Tacoma, and 4:30 pm Wed., Feb. 15 at the McGavick Student & Conference Center at Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood.
More details on the plan and meetings can be found at portoftacoma.com/strategicplan.
The Port of Tacoma Commission is expected to adopt the plan in March.
