By Karen Robes Meeks
Law veteran Dana Henderson is the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s new general counsel, the organization announced in January.
Henderson will be tasked with advising the port on legal matters and will report to NWSA co-chairs and CEO John Wolfe. Henderson has more than 20 years of experience in public and private practice, including work as a litigator and maritime law practitioner. She earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Washington and graduated from Tulane University School of Law.
Since 2013, Henderson served as general counsel for Pierce Transit, which is considered the second largest public transit agency in the state of Washington.
Showing posts with label Northwest Seaport Alliance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Northwest Seaport Alliance. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 4, 2020
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Seattle Meeting to Discuss Marine Noise
By Karen Robes Meeks
Leading maritime agencies gathered in Seattle recently to discuss efforts to curb underwater noise that is harming endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
Representatives of the Port of Seattle, Port of Tacoma, Northwest Seaport Alliance, Washington State Ferries, NOAA, and the Puget Sound Partnership teamed to bring about a workshop that could help lower the noise pollution for the orcas, who have a hard time hunting and communicating underwater because of the noise.
“It was heartening to have such a broad range of expertise in the same room committed to tackling the critical issue of orca survival in the Salish Sea,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner and Northwest Seaport Alliance Managing Member, Fred Felleman, who studied killer whales in graduate school and championed the workshop. “As we know from the study of cooperative hunters such as wolves, lions, and orcas, we can accomplish great things when we work together, and the recovery of our iconic orca hinges on our collaboration.”
The workshop addressed various matters, such as “acoustic monitoring, real-time notification of orca presence to mariners, vessel operations, and technology and innovation,” the port said. Officials hope these discussions will lead to agreements by mid-2020.
Leading maritime agencies gathered in Seattle recently to discuss efforts to curb underwater noise that is harming endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
Representatives of the Port of Seattle, Port of Tacoma, Northwest Seaport Alliance, Washington State Ferries, NOAA, and the Puget Sound Partnership teamed to bring about a workshop that could help lower the noise pollution for the orcas, who have a hard time hunting and communicating underwater because of the noise.
“It was heartening to have such a broad range of expertise in the same room committed to tackling the critical issue of orca survival in the Salish Sea,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner and Northwest Seaport Alliance Managing Member, Fred Felleman, who studied killer whales in graduate school and championed the workshop. “As we know from the study of cooperative hunters such as wolves, lions, and orcas, we can accomplish great things when we work together, and the recovery of our iconic orca hinges on our collaboration.”
The workshop addressed various matters, such as “acoustic monitoring, real-time notification of orca presence to mariners, vessel operations, and technology and innovation,” the port said. Officials hope these discussions will lead to agreements by mid-2020.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Clean Truck Program Wins Award
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s Clean Truck Program recently earned the 2019 Environmental Improvement Award from the American Association of Port Authorities.
The voluntary Clean Truck Program stems from one of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy’s initiatives. As of Jan. 1, 2019, all trucks that enter the NWSA’s container terminals must have engines that are 2007 and newer.
“With newer engines emitting 90 percent less diesel particulate matter (DPM), the program has reduced the pollutant load on our neighboring communities by 33.4 tons of DPM per year,” according to the port.
The award, which highlights the environmental activities of ports, considered environmental benefits, port involvement, creativity, results, cost effectiveness and concept transferability.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s Clean Truck Program recently earned the 2019 Environmental Improvement Award from the American Association of Port Authorities.
The voluntary Clean Truck Program stems from one of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy’s initiatives. As of Jan. 1, 2019, all trucks that enter the NWSA’s container terminals must have engines that are 2007 and newer.
“With newer engines emitting 90 percent less diesel particulate matter (DPM), the program has reduced the pollutant load on our neighboring communities by 33.4 tons of DPM per year,” according to the port.
The award, which highlights the environmental activities of ports, considered environmental benefits, port involvement, creativity, results, cost effectiveness and concept transferability.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Northwest Seaport Alliance Earns
Logistics Honors
By Karen Robes Meeks
The ports of Seattle and Tacoma recently earned top marks for their customer service in Logistics Management’s 2019 Quest for Quality awards.
More than 4,500 readers of the trade publication rated North American ports on ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance was one of only four West Coast ports to earn at least 5 percent of the category vote – minimum criteria to be eligible for the win. It garnered the highest score in three of the five categories to claim the overall title.
“We are honored for the recognition. From day one of the NWSA partnership, we have been focused on helping customers find solutions,” said Tong Zhu, NWSA chief commercial officer and chief strategy officer. “Despite uncertainty within our industry, we continue to look for new opportunities that enhance operational performance and customer experience through our gateway.”
Since 2015, the alliance has earned Quest for Quality honors annually.
The ports of Seattle and Tacoma recently earned top marks for their customer service in Logistics Management’s 2019 Quest for Quality awards.
More than 4,500 readers of the trade publication rated North American ports on ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance was one of only four West Coast ports to earn at least 5 percent of the category vote – minimum criteria to be eligible for the win. It garnered the highest score in three of the five categories to claim the overall title.
“We are honored for the recognition. From day one of the NWSA partnership, we have been focused on helping customers find solutions,” said Tong Zhu, NWSA chief commercial officer and chief strategy officer. “Despite uncertainty within our industry, we continue to look for new opportunities that enhance operational performance and customer experience through our gateway.”
Since 2015, the alliance has earned Quest for Quality honors annually.
Friday, August 9, 2019
Northwest Seaport Commissions Weigh in on Tariffs
By Karen Robes Meeks
Earlier this month, Port of Tacoma Commission President Clare Petrich and Port of Seattle Commission President Stephanie Bowman weighed in on President Trump’s intent to levy a 10 percent tariff on $300 billion worth of Chinese imported goods starting Sept. 1.
“The Northwest Seaport Alliance has been clear and consistent in our messaging on this topic,” Petrich said. “We support a balanced trading relationship with our global partners but are deeply concerned that the imposition of tariffs leads only to increased costs on US businesses and consumers without any long-term strategic benefit.”
Petrich added that this latest hike on remaining Chinese imports will “create economic harm to our state’s employers, workers, residents, and international partnerships.”
Trump’s announcement comes after a 12th round of negotiations between Chinese and American officials ended without resolution.
“Without any clear indication that additional tariffs will lead to productive outcomes, the United States is simply throwing good money after bad by imposing these increased costs on domestic businesses and consumers,” Bowman said. “Combined two-way trade with China through the NWSA is down 11.75% through end of May compared to the previous year, and down 6 percent through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Our farmers, ranchers, fishing industry, and others are already being deeply harmed, and spreading the impact will only make that problem worse.”
Earlier this month, Port of Tacoma Commission President Clare Petrich and Port of Seattle Commission President Stephanie Bowman weighed in on President Trump’s intent to levy a 10 percent tariff on $300 billion worth of Chinese imported goods starting Sept. 1.
“The Northwest Seaport Alliance has been clear and consistent in our messaging on this topic,” Petrich said. “We support a balanced trading relationship with our global partners but are deeply concerned that the imposition of tariffs leads only to increased costs on US businesses and consumers without any long-term strategic benefit.”
Petrich added that this latest hike on remaining Chinese imports will “create economic harm to our state’s employers, workers, residents, and international partnerships.”
Trump’s announcement comes after a 12th round of negotiations between Chinese and American officials ended without resolution.
“Without any clear indication that additional tariffs will lead to productive outcomes, the United States is simply throwing good money after bad by imposing these increased costs on domestic businesses and consumers,” Bowman said. “Combined two-way trade with China through the NWSA is down 11.75% through end of May compared to the previous year, and down 6 percent through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Our farmers, ranchers, fishing industry, and others are already being deeply harmed, and spreading the impact will only make that problem worse.”
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Million-TEU Mark for SSA Seattle
By Karen Robes Meeks
Washington State saw its first marine terminal surpass one million TEUs in a year when SSA Marine’s Terminal 18 reached the milestone earlier this month.
“To reach 1 million TEUs at a Puget Sound terminal for the first time is an enormous achievement and a testament to the value of working together under the banner of The Northwest Seaport Alliance,” said Don Meyer, Port of Tacoma commission president and co-chair of the NWSA.
The North Harbor terminal, which is on its way to 1.1 million TEUs by year’s end, credits the success to an agreement with ILWU Local 19 to launch “continuous vessel operations,” allowing breaks to be staggered so more cargo can be handled daily.
This allowed SSA to handle 5,500 containers on and off a single vessel, achieving an average of 30 crane moves hourly, a first for a terminal in the Puget Sound, according to the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“Surpassing 1 million TEUs is a milestone and a testament to the hardworking people who come here every day and do a wonderful job,” said Eli Bohm, general manager at Terminal 18. “A saying has surfaced in recent months: ‘Teamwork makes the dream work.’ We definitely have an outstanding team that is without a doubt committed to continued success.”
To enhance efficiency, Terminal 18 also boosted its equipment needs by investing in rubber-tired gantry cranes, a move that helped draw two new services and an ocean carrier this year.
“We are proud to announce that Terminal 18 has handled over 1 million TEUs so far this year,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance. “This reflects a strong partnership between The Northwest Seaport Alliance, SSA Marine and Labor that sustains hundreds of good paying jobs in our harbor.”
Washington State saw its first marine terminal surpass one million TEUs in a year when SSA Marine’s Terminal 18 reached the milestone earlier this month.
“To reach 1 million TEUs at a Puget Sound terminal for the first time is an enormous achievement and a testament to the value of working together under the banner of The Northwest Seaport Alliance,” said Don Meyer, Port of Tacoma commission president and co-chair of the NWSA.
The North Harbor terminal, which is on its way to 1.1 million TEUs by year’s end, credits the success to an agreement with ILWU Local 19 to launch “continuous vessel operations,” allowing breaks to be staggered so more cargo can be handled daily.
This allowed SSA to handle 5,500 containers on and off a single vessel, achieving an average of 30 crane moves hourly, a first for a terminal in the Puget Sound, according to the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“Surpassing 1 million TEUs is a milestone and a testament to the hardworking people who come here every day and do a wonderful job,” said Eli Bohm, general manager at Terminal 18. “A saying has surfaced in recent months: ‘Teamwork makes the dream work.’ We definitely have an outstanding team that is without a doubt committed to continued success.”
To enhance efficiency, Terminal 18 also boosted its equipment needs by investing in rubber-tired gantry cranes, a move that helped draw two new services and an ocean carrier this year.
“We are proud to announce that Terminal 18 has handled over 1 million TEUs so far this year,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance. “This reflects a strong partnership between The Northwest Seaport Alliance, SSA Marine and Labor that sustains hundreds of good paying jobs in our harbor.”
Friday, October 19, 2018
PIL to Call at Seattle
By Karen Robes Meeks
For the first time since 2014, Pacific International Lines (PIL) is calling at the Northwest Seaport Alliance harbor.
PIL’s Kota Pekarang debuted Oct. 6 at The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s North Harbor in Seattle. It will make a weekly call at SSA Marine’s Terminal 30 as part of the America China Service, which will also travel to Lianyungang, Shanghai, Ningbo, Long Beach and Lianyungang.
“The Northwest Seaport Alliance is proud to welcome PIL’s weekly service to our gateway,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance. “We are committed to ensuring our quality service will help PIL grow their cargo here in the Northwest to support even more local jobs.”
The 1,100-foot-long Kota Pekarang can hold close to 12,000 TEUs.
“PIL is excited to expand our Seattle-area market presence,” said Ernie Kuo, senior vice president of PIL USA Agency Services. “Servicing more than 500 locations in 95 countries, PIL recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. We look forward to our continued close partnerships long into the future.”
For the first time since 2014, Pacific International Lines (PIL) is calling at the Northwest Seaport Alliance harbor.
PIL’s Kota Pekarang debuted Oct. 6 at The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s North Harbor in Seattle. It will make a weekly call at SSA Marine’s Terminal 30 as part of the America China Service, which will also travel to Lianyungang, Shanghai, Ningbo, Long Beach and Lianyungang.
“The Northwest Seaport Alliance is proud to welcome PIL’s weekly service to our gateway,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance. “We are committed to ensuring our quality service will help PIL grow their cargo here in the Northwest to support even more local jobs.”
The 1,100-foot-long Kota Pekarang can hold close to 12,000 TEUs.
“PIL is excited to expand our Seattle-area market presence,” said Ernie Kuo, senior vice president of PIL USA Agency Services. “Servicing more than 500 locations in 95 countries, PIL recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. We look forward to our continued close partnerships long into the future.”
Friday, September 7, 2018
Northwest Seaport Alliance Wins Logistics Management Award
By Karen Robes Meeks
Logistics Management’s 2018 Quest for Quality Awards recently ranked the Northwest Seaport Alliance second overall in the US West Coast category.
Winners were chosen by the magazine’s readers – logistics and transportation services industry specialists – who cast roughly 4,500 ballots each rating ports based on ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations.
“Since the formation of The Northwest Seaport Alliance in 2015, we’re incredibly honored to be recognized each year,” said Tong Zhu, NWSA’s chief commercial officer and chief strategy officer. “As we’re committed to delivering next-level service and providing customers with solutions to the changing demands of the international supply chain, we’ll continue to explore innovative partnership opportunities to support our customers and stakeholders.”
Logistics Management’s 2018 Quest for Quality Awards recently ranked the Northwest Seaport Alliance second overall in the US West Coast category.
Winners were chosen by the magazine’s readers – logistics and transportation services industry specialists – who cast roughly 4,500 ballots each rating ports based on ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations.
“Since the formation of The Northwest Seaport Alliance in 2015, we’re incredibly honored to be recognized each year,” said Tong Zhu, NWSA’s chief commercial officer and chief strategy officer. “As we’re committed to delivering next-level service and providing customers with solutions to the changing demands of the international supply chain, we’ll continue to explore innovative partnership opportunities to support our customers and stakeholders.”
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Navigation Improvements Studied at Tacoma
By Karen Robes Meeks
A feasibility study focused on improving navigation to the Blair and Sitcum waterways at the Port of Tacoma will soon be launched, thanks to a cost-sharing agreement recently inked between the Northwest Seaport Alliance and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The study will explore alternatives to better navigation, such as deepening federal channels that serve the port.
“With the signing of these documents today, we begin this project to deepen the South Harbor as part of our effort to develop what will be one of the deepest gateways in the nation,” said NWSA CEO John Wolfe. “We truly value our partnership with the Army Corps. It is vital for building a stronger trade gateway and keeping ship calls and the jobs they support in the Pacific Northwest and in the US.”
“The Port of Tacoma is a rapidly expanding major port,” USACE Seattle District Commander Col. Mark Geraldi said in a statement.
“Deepening the Blair and Sitcum waterways may result in cost and time savings, potentially lowering project operations and maintenance costs, as well as potentially allowing for the removal of draft restrictions for certain vessels,” he added. “This general investigation feasibility study will determine whether there is a federal interest in participating in modifying the existing waterways.”
A feasibility study focused on improving navigation to the Blair and Sitcum waterways at the Port of Tacoma will soon be launched, thanks to a cost-sharing agreement recently inked between the Northwest Seaport Alliance and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The study will explore alternatives to better navigation, such as deepening federal channels that serve the port.
“With the signing of these documents today, we begin this project to deepen the South Harbor as part of our effort to develop what will be one of the deepest gateways in the nation,” said NWSA CEO John Wolfe. “We truly value our partnership with the Army Corps. It is vital for building a stronger trade gateway and keeping ship calls and the jobs they support in the Pacific Northwest and in the US.”
“The Port of Tacoma is a rapidly expanding major port,” USACE Seattle District Commander Col. Mark Geraldi said in a statement.
“Deepening the Blair and Sitcum waterways may result in cost and time savings, potentially lowering project operations and maintenance costs, as well as potentially allowing for the removal of draft restrictions for certain vessels,” he added. “This general investigation feasibility study will determine whether there is a federal interest in participating in modifying the existing waterways.”
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
New Line for NW Seaport Alliance
By Karen Robes Meeks
The SM Line Qingdao made its first weekly call to the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s North Harbor on Thursday.
Six 4,300-TEU vessels will call each week at SSA Marine’s Terminal 18 on Seattle’s Harbor Island as part of the new Pacific Northwest Service, which stops at ports in Yantian, Ningbo, Shanghai, Busan, Vancouver, Seattle, Tokyo and Kwangyang.
“We are proud to welcome SM Line to our family of steamship lines calling at The Northwest Seaport Alliance,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance. “This new weekly service and the cargo it brings means jobs and revenue for our region.”
This service gives shippers another carrier option and more direct ports of call to south and central China, Korea and Japan.
The SM Line Qingdao made its first weekly call to the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s North Harbor on Thursday.
Six 4,300-TEU vessels will call each week at SSA Marine’s Terminal 18 on Seattle’s Harbor Island as part of the new Pacific Northwest Service, which stops at ports in Yantian, Ningbo, Shanghai, Busan, Vancouver, Seattle, Tokyo and Kwangyang.
“We are proud to welcome SM Line to our family of steamship lines calling at The Northwest Seaport Alliance,” said Courtney Gregoire, Port of Seattle commission president and co-chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance. “This new weekly service and the cargo it brings means jobs and revenue for our region.”
This service gives shippers another carrier option and more direct ports of call to south and central China, Korea and Japan.
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Tariff Concerns at Northwest Seaport Alliance
By Karen Robes Meeks
Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) CEO John Wolfe recently stood before the US House Ways and Means Committee to talk about the effects of US tariff policy on the local and national economy.
“We are deeply invested in US trade policy discussions because they directly impact our core business, the success of our customers and the lives of our local residents,” he said.
Marine cargo operations at the ports of Seattle and Tacoma support more than 48,000 jobs, while Sea-Tac’s air cargo operations help create more than 5,200 jobs, Wolfe said. “The port and NWSA gateways are truly national assets, with more than 60 percent of the goods imported through the NWSA destined for the rest of the country,” he noted.
Wolfe cited examples, such as the $2.5 billion worth of industrial and electric machinery imports that move through Seattle/Tacoma ports into Illinois, while Ohio and Indiana respectively import $1.9 billion and $1.2 billion worth of these products through his ports. Last year, he added, Seattle/Tacoma exported $1.89 billion in soybeans to China even though none are grown in Washington State.
“While there are justifiable concerns about China’s trade practices, we continue to believe that productive engagement and negotiations are the best path to ensuring a fair and level playing field for mutually beneficial trade,” Wolfe said. “The US must be clear on the desired remedies sought, and then tariffs should be a measure of last resort that are narrowly targeted to address the problem and minimize the unintended impacts on Americans. While it is impossible to truly estimate the impact of these tariffs, roughly $8 billion in two-way trade through our airport and seaport will potentially face some level of increased tariff.”
Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) CEO John Wolfe recently stood before the US House Ways and Means Committee to talk about the effects of US tariff policy on the local and national economy.
“We are deeply invested in US trade policy discussions because they directly impact our core business, the success of our customers and the lives of our local residents,” he said.
Marine cargo operations at the ports of Seattle and Tacoma support more than 48,000 jobs, while Sea-Tac’s air cargo operations help create more than 5,200 jobs, Wolfe said. “The port and NWSA gateways are truly national assets, with more than 60 percent of the goods imported through the NWSA destined for the rest of the country,” he noted.
Wolfe cited examples, such as the $2.5 billion worth of industrial and electric machinery imports that move through Seattle/Tacoma ports into Illinois, while Ohio and Indiana respectively import $1.9 billion and $1.2 billion worth of these products through his ports. Last year, he added, Seattle/Tacoma exported $1.89 billion in soybeans to China even though none are grown in Washington State.
“While there are justifiable concerns about China’s trade practices, we continue to believe that productive engagement and negotiations are the best path to ensuring a fair and level playing field for mutually beneficial trade,” Wolfe said. “The US must be clear on the desired remedies sought, and then tariffs should be a measure of last resort that are narrowly targeted to address the problem and minimize the unintended impacts on Americans. While it is impossible to truly estimate the impact of these tariffs, roughly $8 billion in two-way trade through our airport and seaport will potentially face some level of increased tariff.”
Friday, March 9, 2018
New Drayage Network
By Karen Robes Meeks
E*DRAY, a tech-based platform aimed at making drayage operations at terminals and container yards more efficient, is rolling out in North American markets after a year of planning and market testing, and another nine months of technology development, the company announced Monday.
E*DRAY has heightened its presence with Seattle/Tacoma and is operating live. Several other customers have been secured in Los Angeles/Long Beach and a local team is expected to begin operations by the end of this month, according to the company.
“The Port of Los Angeles is supportive of programs like E*DRAY to help cargo velocity through our gateway,” said Los Angeles Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “With our GE Transportation initiative underway, E*DRAY stands to both strengthen and complement what we are bringing to the port community.”
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, which consists of the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, was the first port to partner with E*DRAY, said John Wolfe, CEO of Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“Their innovation, technology and team have a new approach to increasing velocity through our gateway, which is needed across the country,” he said. “We're excited to work with them and help this become a new standard for those that embrace their solution.”
E*DRAY, a tech-based platform aimed at making drayage operations at terminals and container yards more efficient, is rolling out in North American markets after a year of planning and market testing, and another nine months of technology development, the company announced Monday.
E*DRAY has heightened its presence with Seattle/Tacoma and is operating live. Several other customers have been secured in Los Angeles/Long Beach and a local team is expected to begin operations by the end of this month, according to the company.
“The Port of Los Angeles is supportive of programs like E*DRAY to help cargo velocity through our gateway,” said Los Angeles Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “With our GE Transportation initiative underway, E*DRAY stands to both strengthen and complement what we are bringing to the port community.”
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, which consists of the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, was the first port to partner with E*DRAY, said John Wolfe, CEO of Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“Their innovation, technology and team have a new approach to increasing velocity through our gateway, which is needed across the country,” he said. “We're excited to work with them and help this become a new standard for those that embrace their solution.”
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Tacoma to Host Agriculture Transportation Meeting
By Karen Robes Meeks
Tacoma will welcome the Agriculture Transportation Coalition’s (AgTC) annual meeting this summer. The association, representing agricultural shippers, estimates that some 350 attendees will gather for the June 12–15 event at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, a major US gateway for exporting refrigerated goods, agricultural and forest products, pitched Tacoma as a host location in order to show off the Pacific Northwest region and its international agricultural cargo advantages.
AgTC members are major players in trade, sending over 2 million containers of food, farm and fiber products annually. The alliance, made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, handled more than $6.8 million worth of those exports in 2016.
Tacoma will welcome the Agriculture Transportation Coalition’s (AgTC) annual meeting this summer. The association, representing agricultural shippers, estimates that some 350 attendees will gather for the June 12–15 event at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, a major US gateway for exporting refrigerated goods, agricultural and forest products, pitched Tacoma as a host location in order to show off the Pacific Northwest region and its international agricultural cargo advantages.
AgTC members are major players in trade, sending over 2 million containers of food, farm and fiber products annually. The alliance, made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, handled more than $6.8 million worth of those exports in 2016.
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Clean Trucks for Seattle/Tacoma
By Karen Robes Meeks
The trucking industry in the Northwest will have to operate with cleaner trucks starting April 1, 2018.
Last week, the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance – made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma – changed its Clean Truck Program to read that in order to operate within the port’s international container terminals, trucks must be outfitted with a 2007 or newer engine or equivalent emissions control retrofits. Non-compliant truckers may obtain a temporary pass while working to get vehicles that meet those standards by the end of the year.
Starting April 1, all trucks entering a container terminal at the Port of Seattle must have an RFID tag or a pass.. At the Port of Tacoma, a green Clean Truck Program sticker or a pass will be required. Those failing to comply will be turned away.
The 2007 engine model standard is expected to remain in place until at least 2025, according to the ports. To apply for the temporary port access pass, visit www.nwseaportalliance.com/trucks. Application process starts March 1 and must be completed by April 1, 2018.
The trucking industry in the Northwest will have to operate with cleaner trucks starting April 1, 2018.
Last week, the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance – made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma – changed its Clean Truck Program to read that in order to operate within the port’s international container terminals, trucks must be outfitted with a 2007 or newer engine or equivalent emissions control retrofits. Non-compliant truckers may obtain a temporary pass while working to get vehicles that meet those standards by the end of the year.
Starting April 1, all trucks entering a container terminal at the Port of Seattle must have an RFID tag or a pass.. At the Port of Tacoma, a green Clean Truck Program sticker or a pass will be required. Those failing to comply will be turned away.
The 2007 engine model standard is expected to remain in place until at least 2025, according to the ports. To apply for the temporary port access pass, visit www.nwseaportalliance.com/trucks. Application process starts March 1 and must be completed by April 1, 2018.
Friday, November 10, 2017
Veterans First at Port of Seattle and Tacoma
By Karen Robes Meeks
Veterans looking for work will get first crack at jobs offered in the Puget Sound.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma are teaming up with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to participate in the Guardians of the Gateway Veterans Career Workshop.
Veterans can explore various jobs at the port and airport, from K-9, dive team, bomb disposal and marine patrol police teams to container terminal security officers.
Veterans can also hear from prospective employers about the application process, salaries and benefits, open positions and opportunities for career growth.
The free workshop will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. on November 15 in the Beijing Room at the Conference Center at Sea-Tac International Airport, 17801 International Blvd. in SeaTac, Washington.
To register, visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eemwms8c019e90fc&oseq=&c=&ch
Veterans looking for work will get first crack at jobs offered in the Puget Sound.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance, the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma are teaming up with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to participate in the Guardians of the Gateway Veterans Career Workshop.
Veterans can explore various jobs at the port and airport, from K-9, dive team, bomb disposal and marine patrol police teams to container terminal security officers.
Veterans can also hear from prospective employers about the application process, salaries and benefits, open positions and opportunities for career growth.
The free workshop will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. on November 15 in the Beijing Room at the Conference Center at Sea-Tac International Airport, 17801 International Blvd. in SeaTac, Washington.
To register, visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eemwms8c019e90fc&oseq=&c=&ch
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
SSA Marine Takes Over Tacoma Terminal
By Karen Robes Meeks
SSA Marine has replaced APM Terminals for stevedoring and terminal services for Matson at The Northwest Seaport Alliance Tacoma terminal.
The alliance’s managing members recently authorized SAA Marine’s 10-year lease for the West Sitcum Terminal, which APM Terminals (APMT) operated since 1985 until it was announced in April that SSA Marine would be taking over by the end of the year.
“APMT has served us well,” said Ron Forest, senior vice president – operations for Matson in April. “It just makes more sense to work with our strategic partner at Tacoma as we do at all of our other terminals on the West Coast. We expect a seamless transition and no change in our Tacoma operations from a customer standpoint.”
Before the deal, West Sitcum was the only Matson terminal on the West Coast not managed by SSA Marine.
SSA Marine has replaced APM Terminals for stevedoring and terminal services for Matson at The Northwest Seaport Alliance Tacoma terminal.
The alliance’s managing members recently authorized SAA Marine’s 10-year lease for the West Sitcum Terminal, which APM Terminals (APMT) operated since 1985 until it was announced in April that SSA Marine would be taking over by the end of the year.
“APMT has served us well,” said Ron Forest, senior vice president – operations for Matson in April. “It just makes more sense to work with our strategic partner at Tacoma as we do at all of our other terminals on the West Coast. We expect a seamless transition and no change in our Tacoma operations from a customer standpoint.”
Before the deal, West Sitcum was the only Matson terminal on the West Coast not managed by SSA Marine.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
NW Seaport Alliance Fiscal Meetings
By Karen Robes Meeks
Beginning next week, the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s managing members will host two public meetings to examine the alliance’s 2018 fiscal plan.
The first meeting will take place on October 24 and will delve into the 2018 operating budget, 2018-2022 Capital Improvement Plan, and 2019-2022 financial forecast. A draft of the budget will be posted that day on the alliance’s website and hard copies will also be available at the meetings.
Members are expected to vote on the budget at the November 7 meeting.
The October 24 session will take place at 10 a.m. in the Beijing Room at The Conference Center at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, 17801 International Boulevard in SeaTac, while the November 7 meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. in Room 104 of the Fabulich Center, 3600 Port of Tacoma Road in Tacoma.
Visit http://portal.veconnect.us/p/nwseaportalliance for more.
Beginning next week, the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s managing members will host two public meetings to examine the alliance’s 2018 fiscal plan.
The first meeting will take place on October 24 and will delve into the 2018 operating budget, 2018-2022 Capital Improvement Plan, and 2019-2022 financial forecast. A draft of the budget will be posted that day on the alliance’s website and hard copies will also be available at the meetings.
Members are expected to vote on the budget at the November 7 meeting.
The October 24 session will take place at 10 a.m. in the Beijing Room at The Conference Center at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, 17801 International Boulevard in SeaTac, while the November 7 meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. in Room 104 of the Fabulich Center, 3600 Port of Tacoma Road in Tacoma.
Visit http://portal.veconnect.us/p/nwseaportalliance for more.
Friday, September 22, 2017
Tacoma CEO Wolfe Wins Connie Award
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Containerization & Intermodal Institute (CII) has given its 2017 Connie Award to John Wolfe, CEO of The Northwest Seaport Alliance and the Port of Tacoma, and International Trade Education Programs, Inc. CEO Amy Grat.
The pair were honored Tuesday at an award dinner in Long Beach, where the Intermodal Association of North America was also having its Intermodal EXPO this week.
The awards spotlight those who made “outstanding contributions to containerization and world trade and transportation sector and are acknowledged for their pioneering spirit in their careers, as well as for the positive example they establish for those who will be the future the industry,” according to the release.
“CII is fortunate that in the 45 years of presenting the Connie Award, we continue to honor those who have positively impacted our industry and its reputation,” said CII President Michael J. DiVirgilio. “The different routes that John Wolfe and Amy Grat have taken on this journey have earned them the distinct honor of being recipients of this prestigious award.”
Wolfe, who has been CEO of the Port of Tacoma since 2010, is a veteran in the industry, having spent 10 years with Maersk Sealand/APM Terminals in Tacoma performing various roles such as terminal operations manager. Previously he served the Port of Olympia as director of operations and marine terminal general manager before becoming its executive director.
Grat, who has been CEO of ITEP since 2010, is developing the future industry leaders by partnering with supply chain stakeholders to give high school students a taste of career opportunities in these sectors.
The Containerization & Intermodal Institute (CII) has given its 2017 Connie Award to John Wolfe, CEO of The Northwest Seaport Alliance and the Port of Tacoma, and International Trade Education Programs, Inc. CEO Amy Grat.
The pair were honored Tuesday at an award dinner in Long Beach, where the Intermodal Association of North America was also having its Intermodal EXPO this week.
The awards spotlight those who made “outstanding contributions to containerization and world trade and transportation sector and are acknowledged for their pioneering spirit in their careers, as well as for the positive example they establish for those who will be the future the industry,” according to the release.
“CII is fortunate that in the 45 years of presenting the Connie Award, we continue to honor those who have positively impacted our industry and its reputation,” said CII President Michael J. DiVirgilio. “The different routes that John Wolfe and Amy Grat have taken on this journey have earned them the distinct honor of being recipients of this prestigious award.”
Wolfe, who has been CEO of the Port of Tacoma since 2010, is a veteran in the industry, having spent 10 years with Maersk Sealand/APM Terminals in Tacoma performing various roles such as terminal operations manager. Previously he served the Port of Olympia as director of operations and marine terminal general manager before becoming its executive director.
Grat, who has been CEO of ITEP since 2010, is developing the future industry leaders by partnering with supply chain stakeholders to give high school students a taste of career opportunities in these sectors.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Northwest Seaport Alliance Wins Logistics Award
By Karen Robes Meeks
For Logistics Management’s 2017 Quest for Quality awards, the Northwest Seaport Alliance, which is made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, recently earned the highest rank on the US West Coast and second overall in the West Coast category from the magazine’s readers.
Voters, many of whom are logistics and transportation service buyers, based their decision on “ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations,” according to the Alliance.
A port needed at least five percent of the category vote to win and the Northwest Seaport Alliance was among three West Coast ports to achieve that result.
“Through all of this preparation for an uncertain future, LM [Logistics Management] readers tell us that these North American ocean gateways continue to step up with world class service despite a still unsettled global ocean freight market,” the magazine stated.
Winners were announced in the magazine’s August issue.
For Logistics Management’s 2017 Quest for Quality awards, the Northwest Seaport Alliance, which is made up of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, recently earned the highest rank on the US West Coast and second overall in the West Coast category from the magazine’s readers.
Voters, many of whom are logistics and transportation service buyers, based their decision on “ease of doing business, value, ocean carrier network, intermodal network, and equipment and operations,” according to the Alliance.
A port needed at least five percent of the category vote to win and the Northwest Seaport Alliance was among three West Coast ports to achieve that result.
“Through all of this preparation for an uncertain future, LM [Logistics Management] readers tell us that these North American ocean gateways continue to step up with world class service despite a still unsettled global ocean freight market,” the magazine stated.
Winners were announced in the magazine’s August issue.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Improved Port Driver App
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Northwest Seaport Alliance has relaunched a new and improved DrayQ phone app that gives truck drivers more accurate real-time information about wait times at marine terminals, and camera views of traffic.
Available on iOS and Android smart phones and tablets, DrayQ was developed with the port industry in an effort to curb long wait times and congestion at terminals. The app lines up with the framework of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Connected Vehicle Freight Advanced Traveler Information System (FRATIS) and StrongPorts program.
Improvements to the app – initially launched last October – were made after users said the listed wait times were not accurate enough. Wait times information come from readers that record a driver’s smart device GPS data, whenever a truck passes by the readers as the vehicle travels along the terminal.
More readers have been added to make wait time data more accurate.
"We continue to seek innovative ways that technology can help us speed our operations, save our customers time and money and reduce port-related emissions," said Dustin Stoker, NWSA’s chief operations officer. "Our Operations Service Center engages regularly with supply chain stakeholders to anticipate changing needs."
The Northwest Seaport Alliance has relaunched a new and improved DrayQ phone app that gives truck drivers more accurate real-time information about wait times at marine terminals, and camera views of traffic.
Available on iOS and Android smart phones and tablets, DrayQ was developed with the port industry in an effort to curb long wait times and congestion at terminals. The app lines up with the framework of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Connected Vehicle Freight Advanced Traveler Information System (FRATIS) and StrongPorts program.
Improvements to the app – initially launched last October – were made after users said the listed wait times were not accurate enough. Wait times information come from readers that record a driver’s smart device GPS data, whenever a truck passes by the readers as the vehicle travels along the terminal.
More readers have been added to make wait time data more accurate.
"We continue to seek innovative ways that technology can help us speed our operations, save our customers time and money and reduce port-related emissions," said Dustin Stoker, NWSA’s chief operations officer. "Our Operations Service Center engages regularly with supply chain stakeholders to anticipate changing needs."
