By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Seattle recently adopted the Duwamish Valley Community Benefits Commitment, a policy that will foster economic opportunities in this port-adjacent community.
“The Port of Seattle is excited to continue working with the Duwamish Valley community in providing greater opportunities to near-Port neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by environmental justice issues,” said Port of Seattle Commission President Stephanie Bowman. “We’ve seen great results so far, and we look forward to engaging more community groups to continue this innovative and impactful work.”
The policy is the culmination of three years of work between the port and Duwamish Valley community and is part of the EPA Ports Initiative Environmental Justice Project. Back in 2006, the port, community members and Just Health Action teamed up to apply for an EPA technical assistance grant to address environmental issues in the Duwamish Valley.
“The communities of the Duwamish Valley have always been rich with talent and continue to add economically and to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This resolution is reflective of an important step the Duwamish Valley community and the Port of Seattle is making so that all who live, work, and invest in the valley can thrive,” said Bunthay Cheam, Port Community Action Team representative and lifelong South Park community member. “It serves as a model of how institutions and communities can build together. We thank the Port of Seattle for recognizing the need for the Duwamish Valley Community Benefits Commitment and for investing in its neighbors that have been here all along.”
Friday, December 27, 2019
