Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Long Beach Historically Busy

By Karen Robes Meeks

The Port of Long Beach recently posted its busiest October in history moving 669,218 TEUs, up 15 percent from the same period last year, according to the latest numbers.

The port handled 339,013 imported TEUs, a 14.3 percent spike from October 2016. Meanwhile, it moved slightly fewer exports year over year, about 0.5 percent, to 126,150 containers. Empty containers, which are sent overseas to be replenished with products, rose 28.9 percent, to 204,055 TEUs.

This latest statistic reflects what continues to be a record-setting trend at the nation’s second busiest seaport. Last month was the port’s fourth-busiest of 2017 after July, September and August.

“October used to be the industry’s busiest month of the year, with retailers preparing for Christmas,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “Now, with other popular shopping seasons like back-to-school, Halloween and Black Friday, ocean carriers are spreading shipments across more months to maximize the services we have developed to serve them.”

Through the first 10 months of the year, Long Beach handled 6,234,930 TEUs, a 9.5 percent increase over the same period in 2016.

“With two months left in 2017, we’re on track to have our best year ever,” said Harbor Commission President Lou Anne Bynum.

Los Angeles Harbor Parade Registration

By Karen Robes Meeks

Boaters can still register to participate in the 55th Annual Los Angeles Harbor Holiday Afloat parade on December 2. The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Port of Los Angeles.

The vessel entry fee is $35 and includes one admission to the December 3 parade awards brunch at the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club in San Pedro, Calif., where trophies for best use of this year’s parade theme “Peace Around the World,” Holiday Spirit, Most Original, Children’s Choice, Judge’s Choice, and the Grand Marshal’s Award will be presented.

November 30 is the registration deadline. For more details, visit laharborholidayafloat.org, or call parade committee co-chairs Henry Rivas at 323- 487-2101, or Donna Ethington at 310-549-8111.

Bellingham Waterfront Redevelopment

By Karen Robes Meeks

Construction on a pair of major redevelopment projects on the Bellingham waterfront are underway.

A new roadway is being built at the $8.7 million Granary Avenue and Laurel Street project. It will feature Whatcom County’s first cycle track, a dedicated bikeway on both sides of the road. Work is expected to take place over the next year and will involve constructing the part of Granary Avenue adjacent to Roeder Avenue. This will provide visitors early access to Waypoint Park and the historic Granary Building, which is currently being renovated to include shops, restaurants and upper-story offices.

The $2 million, one-acre Waypoint Park project is also under constructionand will feature a new beach, playground, waterfront trail, industrial art and near shore habitat at the end of Central Avenue next to the Granary Building. Work is anticipated to be completed by spring 2018.

New Everett Commissioner

By Karen Robes Meeks

Retired supply chain manager Bruce Fingarson will fill the Port of Everett Commission District 1 seat vacated by Troy McClelland, who stepped down after relocating to Massachusetts for a job assignment.

A Washington State University graduate who earned his degree in Business Administration, Fingarson worked in Everett in supplier management for The Boeing Co. for 36 years. He also has strong ties to the city. His family has made Everett their home since the 1920s when his grandparents settled there.

“We were fortunate to have a great group of outstanding candidates,” Port Commissioner Glen Bachman said. “We look forward to having Commissioner Fingarson join the Port team.”

Fingarson’s appointment will last until the next regular port election in 2019.