The Port of Seattle Commission on Dec. 4 approved a 25-year
program that it says should position it to help create 100,000 new jobs in the
region while at the same time reducing the port’s environmental footprint.
The port’s Century Agenda program identifies four strategies
for the port to pursue with its business partners and stakeholders, augmented
by four regional initiatives that identify near-term opportunities for regional
coalitions to collaborate.
The port’s strategies and objectives include positioning the
Puget Sound region as the premier international logistics hub; advancing the
region as a leading tourism destination and business gateway; using the port’s
influence as an institution to promote small business growth and workforce
development; and ensuring the port is the greenest and most energy efficient
port in North America through implementation of a multi-faceted approach to
reduce energy use, air pollutants, carbon emissions and storm water runoff.
The four regional initiatives include strengthening access
to global markets and supply chains for Northwest businesses; making Washington
a preferred destination for international tourists; establishment of an
educational consortium to serve the needs of maritime industry for workforce
development, applied research and business growth; and fostering a coordinated
effort between Puget Sound ports to support Washington state’s pursuit of a
healthier Puget Sound by encouraging Puget Sound ports and other regional
organizations to work together to restore the vitality of Puget Sound and
protect and improve the shared environment.
More details of the plan can be found at http://www.portseattle.org/About/Commission/Pages/Century-Agenda.aspx.
