By Karen Robes Meeks
Six area groups committed to the Silicon Valley community were recently awarded a total of $21,000 in sponsorships by the Port of Redwood City Board of Commissioners.
They include Peninsula Youth Sailing Foundation, the Redwood City Library Foundation, City Trees, Redwood City Parks and Arts Foundation, Sequoia YMCA and San Mateo County Historical Association.
The second annual community sponsorship program funds local events and efforts that highlight community-forward maritime activities, focused on economic growth, environmental stewardship, youth and education, and community benefit.
“The Sponsorship Program is one way the port delivers on our commitment to serve Silicon Valley,” said Board of Port Commissioner Chair Ralph A. Garcia. “We are pleased to support important community programs, while also educating our community on the Port’s varied businesses.”
Events and programs chosen by the port program are expected to take place between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021.
Showing posts with label Port of Redwood City. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Port of Redwood City. Show all posts
Friday, May 22, 2020
Friday, March 6, 2020
Port of Redwood City Releases Mid-Year Results
By Karen Robes Meeks
From July 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2019 – the first half of the Port of Redwood City’s fiscal year – the port moved 1.24 million metric tons of cargo that created $4.7 million of revenue, the port announced this week.
The cargo came from Australia, China, Mexico and Canada, while exported departed for Bangladesh, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
“We are pleased that the Port of Redwood City has seen tremendous growth over the last few years,” said Port of Redwood City Board Chairman Ralph Garcia. “Our recent cargo numbers continue to validate a strong construction economic sector. Our port supports well-paying jobs in the region, while serving our community with global connections.”
From July 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2019 – the first half of the Port of Redwood City’s fiscal year – the port moved 1.24 million metric tons of cargo that created $4.7 million of revenue, the port announced this week.
The cargo came from Australia, China, Mexico and Canada, while exported departed for Bangladesh, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
“We are pleased that the Port of Redwood City has seen tremendous growth over the last few years,” said Port of Redwood City Board Chairman Ralph Garcia. “Our recent cargo numbers continue to validate a strong construction economic sector. Our port supports well-paying jobs in the region, while serving our community with global connections.”
Friday, January 10, 2020
Port of Redwood Unveils Long-Term Strategy
By Karen Robes Meeks
This week, the Port of Redwood City Board of Port Commissioners approved a long-term plan to positively bolster the port’s economic and quality-of-life impact to the region.
The 2020 vision consisting of 45 recommendations aims to optimize the land use, enhance infrastructure and operations, protect the environment and strive to expand the maritime and commercial business opportunities at the widely-known dry bulk port. According to the port, the vision also includes diversification opportunities for RO/RO and project cargo.
The three-level vision was developed to guide the port for the next 25 years, starting with short-term plans through 2026.
Recommendations include more public waterfront access as well as commercial and recreational uses for the shoreline, a public or private ferry service to South San Francisco Bay and the development of “cargo velocity standards” to make cargo movement more efficient.
“This comprehensive vision has been a year in the making, and carefully balances economic, environmental and community interests to maximize the value of the Port to the region,” said Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman.
For more information, visit redwoodcityport.com/2020vision.
This week, the Port of Redwood City Board of Port Commissioners approved a long-term plan to positively bolster the port’s economic and quality-of-life impact to the region.
The 2020 vision consisting of 45 recommendations aims to optimize the land use, enhance infrastructure and operations, protect the environment and strive to expand the maritime and commercial business opportunities at the widely-known dry bulk port. According to the port, the vision also includes diversification opportunities for RO/RO and project cargo.
The three-level vision was developed to guide the port for the next 25 years, starting with short-term plans through 2026.
Recommendations include more public waterfront access as well as commercial and recreational uses for the shoreline, a public or private ferry service to South San Francisco Bay and the development of “cargo velocity standards” to make cargo movement more efficient.
“This comprehensive vision has been a year in the making, and carefully balances economic, environmental and community interests to maximize the value of the Port to the region,” said Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman.
For more information, visit redwoodcityport.com/2020vision.
Friday, December 6, 2019
Sea Level Defense
By Karen Robes Meeks
This week, leaders from the Port of Redwood City and other California ports gathered for the “Strategies for Storms, Flooding and Sea Level Defense” conference in Oakland, Calif.
Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman shared the port’s efforts to proactively address issues related to higher sea levels, storm surges and flooding.
Approximatively $17 million will be dedicated to making the port ready to tackle major emergencies, including an investment in a wharf that can withstand from three to five feet of sea level rise, and an 8.9 magnitude earthquake.
“Our port has been designated as the only federal staging area for emergencies in the South San Francisco Bay area by the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” she said. “In a time of crisis, our port will be used to deliver supplies, evacuate people and transport rescue teams to aid in disaster recovery and provide critical relief to our region. This is a tremendously important designation in our service to the community.”
This week, leaders from the Port of Redwood City and other California ports gathered for the “Strategies for Storms, Flooding and Sea Level Defense” conference in Oakland, Calif.
Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman shared the port’s efforts to proactively address issues related to higher sea levels, storm surges and flooding.
Approximatively $17 million will be dedicated to making the port ready to tackle major emergencies, including an investment in a wharf that can withstand from three to five feet of sea level rise, and an 8.9 magnitude earthquake.
“Our port has been designated as the only federal staging area for emergencies in the South San Francisco Bay area by the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” she said. “In a time of crisis, our port will be used to deliver supplies, evacuate people and transport rescue teams to aid in disaster recovery and provide critical relief to our region. This is a tremendously important designation in our service to the community.”
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
New Art for Redwood City Waterfront
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Redwood City’s waterfront will soon feature the work of Bay Area street artist Marlon Yanes.
On Nov. 20, the port will unveil Yanes’ art during a ribbon cutting ceremony. The paintings feature a 3-D mural depicting the inside of a sailboat cabin, utility box artwork honoring the port’s history and a series of nautical-themed light posts.
“These fresh bursts of colorful public art are one of the many ways we’re working to invite more of the community to enjoy our waterfront,” said Port Executive Director Kristine Zortman. “With so many recreational opportunities here along the waterfront, we hope to create a welcoming place where people want to frequent. We invite everyone to come see the new public art here in person, and hope they stay awhile to enjoy our other amenities.”
The ceremony will take place at 8 a.m. at Spinnaker Sailing, 451 Seaport Court, Redwood City, CA 94063.
For more information on the port’s public amenities, go to www.redwoodcityport.com/publicwaterfront.
The Port of Redwood City’s waterfront will soon feature the work of Bay Area street artist Marlon Yanes.
On Nov. 20, the port will unveil Yanes’ art during a ribbon cutting ceremony. The paintings feature a 3-D mural depicting the inside of a sailboat cabin, utility box artwork honoring the port’s history and a series of nautical-themed light posts.
“These fresh bursts of colorful public art are one of the many ways we’re working to invite more of the community to enjoy our waterfront,” said Port Executive Director Kristine Zortman. “With so many recreational opportunities here along the waterfront, we hope to create a welcoming place where people want to frequent. We invite everyone to come see the new public art here in person, and hope they stay awhile to enjoy our other amenities.”
The ceremony will take place at 8 a.m. at Spinnaker Sailing, 451 Seaport Court, Redwood City, CA 94063.
For more information on the port’s public amenities, go to www.redwoodcityport.com/publicwaterfront.
Friday, September 27, 2019
Redwood City PortFest
By Karen Robes Meeks
The 10th Annual Redwood City PortFest will take place on Oct. 5.
This year’s event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature a day full of family-friendly activities, including Sea Scout Boat Rides on the Gryphon and Marine Science Institute Harbor Tours aboard the Robert G. Brownlee, as well as Working Waterfront tours and a Kids Cool Game Truck video game experience. Free sailboat rides by Spinnaker Sailing, food, and Kids Zone with bounce house, carnival games and prizes will add to the experience.
Cover band Brickhouse will headline the entertainment portion of the event. Music from the West Bay Community Band, Sequoia High School Band and the Woodside String Orchestra will also be featured on the program.
Visit https://rwcportfest.com/ for more information.
The 10th Annual Redwood City PortFest will take place on Oct. 5.
This year’s event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature a day full of family-friendly activities, including Sea Scout Boat Rides on the Gryphon and Marine Science Institute Harbor Tours aboard the Robert G. Brownlee, as well as Working Waterfront tours and a Kids Cool Game Truck video game experience. Free sailboat rides by Spinnaker Sailing, food, and Kids Zone with bounce house, carnival games and prizes will add to the experience.
Cover band Brickhouse will headline the entertainment portion of the event. Music from the West Bay Community Band, Sequoia High School Band and the Woodside String Orchestra will also be featured on the program.
Visit https://rwcportfest.com/ for more information.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Community Outreach at Redwood City
By Karen Robes Meeks
Redmond City, the port of Redwood City and the Water Emergency Transportation Authority will be hosting a series of community outreach and ridership forecast activities at upcoming fall events.
The three agencies are looking into the feasibility of constructing a ferry terminal and running a new ferry service to and from Redwood City.
The study will explore ridership potential, number-crunch operation costs and estimate economic and social benefits. It will also consider potential routes and landing sites for ferries, including San Francisco and Oakland.
Community outreach opportunities include the Salsa Festival on Sept. 21, PortFest on Oct. 5, Farmers Market on Saturdays and the San Carlos Art & Wine Fair, October 12-13.
Redmond City, the port of Redwood City and the Water Emergency Transportation Authority will be hosting a series of community outreach and ridership forecast activities at upcoming fall events.
The three agencies are looking into the feasibility of constructing a ferry terminal and running a new ferry service to and from Redwood City.
The study will explore ridership potential, number-crunch operation costs and estimate economic and social benefits. It will also consider potential routes and landing sites for ferries, including San Francisco and Oakland.
Community outreach opportunities include the Salsa Festival on Sept. 21, PortFest on Oct. 5, Farmers Market on Saturdays and the San Carlos Art & Wine Fair, October 12-13.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
New Redwood City Port Commission Chair
By Karen Robes Meeks
Commissioner Ralph Garcia will serve as chairman of the board of the Port of Redwood City’s Port Commission. The announcement was made at the Sept. 11 meeting. He will be taking over for outgoing Chair Lorianna Kastrop.
First appointed to the port commission in 2005 and reappointed in 2007 and 2012, Garcia served more than a decade on the Redwood City Planning Commission, including a two-year term as chairman. He has owned Ralph’s Vacuum and Sewing Center in Redwood City for over four decades.
Commissioner Richard Claire will serve as the board’s vice chairman, while Commissioner R. Simms Duncan will fill the Board Secretary position. The board unanimously approved the election of the officers.
Commissioner Ralph Garcia will serve as chairman of the board of the Port of Redwood City’s Port Commission. The announcement was made at the Sept. 11 meeting. He will be taking over for outgoing Chair Lorianna Kastrop.
First appointed to the port commission in 2005 and reappointed in 2007 and 2012, Garcia served more than a decade on the Redwood City Planning Commission, including a two-year term as chairman. He has owned Ralph’s Vacuum and Sewing Center in Redwood City for over four decades.
Commissioner Richard Claire will serve as the board’s vice chairman, while Commissioner R. Simms Duncan will fill the Board Secretary position. The board unanimously approved the election of the officers.
Friday, September 13, 2019
Redwood City Hosts First Responders
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Redwood City – an official FEMA-designated Federal Staging Area (FSA) for the South San Francisco Bay area – recently hosted more than 75 regional first responders for an annual emergency drill. The four-hour exercise – which simulated a post-7.9 magnitude earthquake scenario – tested the response of regional fire departments, Redwood City Police Department and city staff, as well as FEMA Urban Search and Rescue California Task Force 3.
“Emergency drills like this are conducted annually to keep first responders ready and allow them to continuously learn new ways to better collaborate on recovery efforts,” said Ted Born, operational planner for FEMA Region 9 who attended the exercise as an observer.
“Last year’s exercise was influential in initiating development of the Bay Area Port Recovery Plan, post-earthquake,” said Born. “As the only deep-water port in the south Bay Area, (the Port of Redwood City) is a strategic location for the delivery of emergency provisions along the San Andreas Fault and a key part of the Bay Area’s earthquake recovery plans.”
The Port of Redwood City – an official FEMA-designated Federal Staging Area (FSA) for the South San Francisco Bay area – recently hosted more than 75 regional first responders for an annual emergency drill. The four-hour exercise – which simulated a post-7.9 magnitude earthquake scenario – tested the response of regional fire departments, Redwood City Police Department and city staff, as well as FEMA Urban Search and Rescue California Task Force 3.
“Emergency drills like this are conducted annually to keep first responders ready and allow them to continuously learn new ways to better collaborate on recovery efforts,” said Ted Born, operational planner for FEMA Region 9 who attended the exercise as an observer.
“Last year’s exercise was influential in initiating development of the Bay Area Port Recovery Plan, post-earthquake,” said Born. “As the only deep-water port in the south Bay Area, (the Port of Redwood City) is a strategic location for the delivery of emergency provisions along the San Andreas Fault and a key part of the Bay Area’s earthquake recovery plans.”
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Redwood City Receives Security Grant
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Redwood City has secured a $1.85 million 2019 Federal Emergency Management Agency Port Security Grant, allowing it to bolster its maritime security-related partnership with federal and area first responders.
The grant will go towards a new modern Interagency Operations Center, training and exercises. It will also pay for security infrastructure and equipment, including cameras, fencing, lights, a new jet dock, and equipment that detects chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive dangers for the Redwood City Fire and Police Departments.
“Receiving this grant underscores the federal government’s confidence in the port as a valued strategic partner in homeland security and a leader in emergency preparedness,” stated Port of Redwood City Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman. “This grant further demonstrates to our community the significance that the port plays in security and disaster recovery for the region.”
The Port of Redwood City has secured a $1.85 million 2019 Federal Emergency Management Agency Port Security Grant, allowing it to bolster its maritime security-related partnership with federal and area first responders.
The grant will go towards a new modern Interagency Operations Center, training and exercises. It will also pay for security infrastructure and equipment, including cameras, fencing, lights, a new jet dock, and equipment that detects chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive dangers for the Redwood City Fire and Police Departments.
“Receiving this grant underscores the federal government’s confidence in the port as a valued strategic partner in homeland security and a leader in emergency preparedness,” stated Port of Redwood City Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman. “This grant further demonstrates to our community the significance that the port plays in security and disaster recovery for the region.”
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
Redwood City Breaks Records
By Karen Robes Meeks
For the second straight year, the Port of Redwood City broke cargo records.
The port handled 2.65M metric tons of cargo, an increase of 14.7 percent when compared to fiscal year 2017-18.
“The port’s growth in cargo and revenue for the fiscal year is a result of our tenants, strategic partners, and the port team in driving our phenomenal success,” said Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman. “The port is a proud community entrepreneurial enterprise and we look forward to continuing to strengthen collaborations with our local, regional and federal partners.”
The port also saw a 20 percent jump in cargo vessel calls year over year, a performance that resulted in $9.3 million in revenue, almost $700,000 more than last year.
“Following a record-breaking fiscal year 2017-18, these results reinforce the port’s significance supporting economic growth in Silicon Valley and the Bay Area,” said Lorianna Kastrop, port Commission chair. “Strong maritime trade and cargo supports the activation of recreational waterfront uses, helps maintain city services, and increases emergency response resilience.”
For the second straight year, the Port of Redwood City broke cargo records.
The port handled 2.65M metric tons of cargo, an increase of 14.7 percent when compared to fiscal year 2017-18.
“The port’s growth in cargo and revenue for the fiscal year is a result of our tenants, strategic partners, and the port team in driving our phenomenal success,” said Port Executive Director Kristine A. Zortman. “The port is a proud community entrepreneurial enterprise and we look forward to continuing to strengthen collaborations with our local, regional and federal partners.”
The port also saw a 20 percent jump in cargo vessel calls year over year, a performance that resulted in $9.3 million in revenue, almost $700,000 more than last year.
“Following a record-breaking fiscal year 2017-18, these results reinforce the port’s significance supporting economic growth in Silicon Valley and the Bay Area,” said Lorianna Kastrop, port Commission chair. “Strong maritime trade and cargo supports the activation of recreational waterfront uses, helps maintain city services, and increases emergency response resilience.”
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Redwood City Flex Time
By Karen Robes Meeks
Starting June 7, the Port of Redwood City will be closed on alternating Fridays as part of a pilot program to help “ease employee commute time, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide one additional hour of business administration to the public Monday through Thursday,” according to the port.
As of May 28, the new administrative office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, and closed every other Friday. The change is prompted in part by the Bay area’s high cost of housing in which many endure long commutes to get to work or to conduct business at the port.
Meanwhile, port operations and public safety services continue 24 hours a day.
Visit https://www.redwoodcityport.com/alternativeworkschedule for the new schedule.
Starting June 7, the Port of Redwood City will be closed on alternating Fridays as part of a pilot program to help “ease employee commute time, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide one additional hour of business administration to the public Monday through Thursday,” according to the port.
As of May 28, the new administrative office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, and closed every other Friday. The change is prompted in part by the Bay area’s high cost of housing in which many endure long commutes to get to work or to conduct business at the port.
Meanwhile, port operations and public safety services continue 24 hours a day.
Visit https://www.redwoodcityport.com/alternativeworkschedule for the new schedule.
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Big Numbers for Redwood City
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Redwood City recently posted record cargo numbers, reaching 2 million metric tons in the third quarter of its current fiscal year and generating $7.1 million in revenue.
It is a 22 percent increase when compared to the same period last year, and nearly $900,000 more than the previous year’s financial performance of $6.2 million.
“Following a record-breaking year in FY 2017-18, these results reinforce the Port’s significance supporting economic growth in Silicon Valley and the Bay Area,” said Lorianna Kastrop, Port Commission chair. “We anticipate strong results to continue through the rest of the fiscal year.”
Vessel calls are also up 29.8 percent from the previous year, moving imports from nations such as Australia, Canada and Mexico, exports to Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, India and Bangladesh.
The record showing helped the port garner a strong A- bond rating by Standard & Poor’s, which can spark continued reinvestment in the port.
The Port of Redwood City recently posted record cargo numbers, reaching 2 million metric tons in the third quarter of its current fiscal year and generating $7.1 million in revenue.
It is a 22 percent increase when compared to the same period last year, and nearly $900,000 more than the previous year’s financial performance of $6.2 million.
“Following a record-breaking year in FY 2017-18, these results reinforce the Port’s significance supporting economic growth in Silicon Valley and the Bay Area,” said Lorianna Kastrop, Port Commission chair. “We anticipate strong results to continue through the rest of the fiscal year.”
Vessel calls are also up 29.8 percent from the previous year, moving imports from nations such as Australia, Canada and Mexico, exports to Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, India and Bangladesh.
The record showing helped the port garner a strong A- bond rating by Standard & Poor’s, which can spark continued reinvestment in the port.
Friday, January 18, 2019
Redwood City Moves More Cargo
By Karen Robes Meeks
In the first half of its fiscal year running from July 1 to Dec. 31, the Port of Redwood City moved 1.36 million metric tons of cargo, 150,000 metric tons more than a year ago.
The cargo movement generated $4.78 million in port revenue, $470,000 more than the previous period.
“The port’s mid-year results continue to lay a strong foundation for both cargo and revenue growth,” said Port Commission Chair Lorianna Kastrop. “Nearly half a million dollars better than our best year in operational history is quite an accomplishment and furthers our maritime and economic development goals serving Silicon Valley.”
The port anticipates strong results for the rest of fiscal year 2019 from construction materials, a top-ranking port import, according to Kastrop, adding that construction industry trends point to ongoing growth over the next five years. “These positive maritime trade results allow us to support the local Redwood City community through an annual payment (or subvention) to support city services and activate recreational waterfront uses,” she said.
The port’s fiscal year is from July 1 to June 30.
In the first half of its fiscal year running from July 1 to Dec. 31, the Port of Redwood City moved 1.36 million metric tons of cargo, 150,000 metric tons more than a year ago.
The cargo movement generated $4.78 million in port revenue, $470,000 more than the previous period.
“The port’s mid-year results continue to lay a strong foundation for both cargo and revenue growth,” said Port Commission Chair Lorianna Kastrop. “Nearly half a million dollars better than our best year in operational history is quite an accomplishment and furthers our maritime and economic development goals serving Silicon Valley.”
The port anticipates strong results for the rest of fiscal year 2019 from construction materials, a top-ranking port import, according to Kastrop, adding that construction industry trends point to ongoing growth over the next five years. “These positive maritime trade results allow us to support the local Redwood City community through an annual payment (or subvention) to support city services and activate recreational waterfront uses,” she said.
The port’s fiscal year is from July 1 to June 30.
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Redwood City Channel to be Dredged
By Karen Robes Meeks
The US Army Corps of Engineers has budgeted $7.95 million toward channel dredging in the Port of Redwood City region in 2019.
“The funding of the channel dredging and federal investment into our region is great news for the Port of Redwood City, providing certainty that the Port continues to secure and expand maritime activities in the future,” said Port Commission chairwoman Lorianna Kastrop.
The Port of Redwood City is South San Francisco Bay’s only deep-water port, and the dredging will help accommodate larger ships.
“This project is significant to the economic health of the Silicon Valley region, notably the construction industry as the Port supplies construction materials to fuel construction needs locally. Additionally, dredging also supports personal water recreation use in and around the Redwood Creek Channel.”
The US Army Corps of Engineers has budgeted $7.95 million toward channel dredging in the Port of Redwood City region in 2019.
“The funding of the channel dredging and federal investment into our region is great news for the Port of Redwood City, providing certainty that the Port continues to secure and expand maritime activities in the future,” said Port Commission chairwoman Lorianna Kastrop.
The Port of Redwood City is South San Francisco Bay’s only deep-water port, and the dredging will help accommodate larger ships.
“This project is significant to the economic health of the Silicon Valley region, notably the construction industry as the Port supplies construction materials to fuel construction needs locally. Additionally, dredging also supports personal water recreation use in and around the Redwood Creek Channel.”
Friday, October 5, 2018
Redwood City PortFest
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Redwood City is celebrating the waterfront with a free all-day community event on Oct. 6.
PortFest 2018 starts at 10 a.m. with a welcome ceremony featuring the Moffett Squadron Sea Cadet Color Guard, the West Bay Community Band, while Rep. Jackie Speier and Redwood City Mayor Ian Bain will address the crowd. Shortly after the ceremony, the Redwood City Fire Department Fireboat Sequoia Guardian will perform a water cannon display.
Festivities will also include live music, food trucks and booths, boat rides, children’s activities and other displays. The History Museum Woodside Store’s special interactive logging experience exhibit will celebrate the port’s history as a logging port in the 1800s.
Don’t miss the 45-minute harbor tours aboard the Robert G. Brownlee, as well as Working Waterfront tours and the opportunity to ride in a 16-person rowing barge.
PortFest runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Port of Redwood City waterfront on Seaport Court at Seaport Blvd.
Visit www.rwcportfest.com for more information.
The Port of Redwood City is celebrating the waterfront with a free all-day community event on Oct. 6.
PortFest 2018 starts at 10 a.m. with a welcome ceremony featuring the Moffett Squadron Sea Cadet Color Guard, the West Bay Community Band, while Rep. Jackie Speier and Redwood City Mayor Ian Bain will address the crowd. Shortly after the ceremony, the Redwood City Fire Department Fireboat Sequoia Guardian will perform a water cannon display.
Festivities will also include live music, food trucks and booths, boat rides, children’s activities and other displays. The History Museum Woodside Store’s special interactive logging experience exhibit will celebrate the port’s history as a logging port in the 1800s.
Don’t miss the 45-minute harbor tours aboard the Robert G. Brownlee, as well as Working Waterfront tours and the opportunity to ride in a 16-person rowing barge.
PortFest runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Port of Redwood City waterfront on Seaport Court at Seaport Blvd.
Visit www.rwcportfest.com for more information.
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
New Executive for Redwood City
By Karen Robes Meeks
Kristine A. Zortman, vice president of the economic development nonprofit Civic San Diego, will lead the Port of Redwood City as its new executive director.
Zortman will take over for longtime director Mike Giari, who announced his retirement earlier this year.
“Following an extensive recruitment effort, the Port Commission is thrilled to announce the selection of Kristine A. Zortman to further the port’s successful economic development and maritime trade growth,” said Richard Dodge, chair of the Port Commission. “Kristine’s experience and leadership in maritime commercial growth and expansion and maritime related commercial real estate were key assets advancing her as our top candidate,” he added. “Kristine’s successful collaborations with boards, strong community and business partnerships, and experience managing successful internal teams will elevate the port’s success as we continue as a leader among California and US ports and focus on economic development, transportation and community building initiatives and priorities.”
Prior to working with Civic San Diego, Zortman negotiated long-term commercial real estate leases for the Port of San Diego for eight years and worked on land acquisition for Lennar Communities for six years. She also did environmental project management for several years, according to the port.
“I am grateful and thank the Port Commission leadership for their confidence in me to lead the Port of Redwood City,” Zortman said. “I look forward to working with an outstanding internal leadership team, to develop strong partnerships with the Redwood City community, and local, national and international business leaders, and to partner with local, state and federal port leaders to further the important work of ports nationwide. As an economic engine, the port’s strategic alliances and business partnerships will facilitate it truly becoming the region’s partner of choice in multi-national maritime trade and industry.”
Kristine A. Zortman, vice president of the economic development nonprofit Civic San Diego, will lead the Port of Redwood City as its new executive director.
Zortman will take over for longtime director Mike Giari, who announced his retirement earlier this year.
“Following an extensive recruitment effort, the Port Commission is thrilled to announce the selection of Kristine A. Zortman to further the port’s successful economic development and maritime trade growth,” said Richard Dodge, chair of the Port Commission. “Kristine’s experience and leadership in maritime commercial growth and expansion and maritime related commercial real estate were key assets advancing her as our top candidate,” he added. “Kristine’s successful collaborations with boards, strong community and business partnerships, and experience managing successful internal teams will elevate the port’s success as we continue as a leader among California and US ports and focus on economic development, transportation and community building initiatives and priorities.”
Prior to working with Civic San Diego, Zortman negotiated long-term commercial real estate leases for the Port of San Diego for eight years and worked on land acquisition for Lennar Communities for six years. She also did environmental project management for several years, according to the port.
“I am grateful and thank the Port Commission leadership for their confidence in me to lead the Port of Redwood City,” Zortman said. “I look forward to working with an outstanding internal leadership team, to develop strong partnerships with the Redwood City community, and local, national and international business leaders, and to partner with local, state and federal port leaders to further the important work of ports nationwide. As an economic engine, the port’s strategic alliances and business partnerships will facilitate it truly becoming the region’s partner of choice in multi-national maritime trade and industry.”
Friday, February 23, 2018
Redwood City Sees Big Increase
By Karen Robes Meeks
In the first six months of its fiscal year, the Port of Redwood City saw 41 percent more cargo moving across its docks compared to the same period a year ago, handling a record 1.2-million metric ton between July 1 and Dec. 31, 2017.
The region’s construction boom is pushing the demand, with building materials arriving mostly from British Columbia to the port, according to Port Executive Director Mike Giari.
The port is projected to surpass its record tonnage from fiscal year 2005, when it moved over 1.9 million metric tons.
The number of ships that called at the port was up as well, from 49 to 79, during the same six-month period.
In the first six months of its fiscal year, the Port of Redwood City saw 41 percent more cargo moving across its docks compared to the same period a year ago, handling a record 1.2-million metric ton between July 1 and Dec. 31, 2017.
The region’s construction boom is pushing the demand, with building materials arriving mostly from British Columbia to the port, according to Port Executive Director Mike Giari.
The port is projected to surpass its record tonnage from fiscal year 2005, when it moved over 1.9 million metric tons.
The number of ships that called at the port was up as well, from 49 to 79, during the same six-month period.
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Redwood City’s Giari to Retire
By Karen Robes Meeks
Port of Redwood City Executive Director Michael J. Giari is expected to retire sometime in the spring, according to the port.
Giari, who plans to retire on May 1 or when a new leader is in place, has been with the Port of Redwood City since 1988. He started as manager of trade development before being promoted to executive director in 1995. Before coming to the port, Giari was an assistant manager of a major waterfront development project and as a marine transportation planner for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
"Mike has been instrumental in helping the port grow and sustain that growth," Commission Chairman Dick Dodge said. "Tonnage across the port docks has more than tripled since Mike assumed his position in 1995 and the Port has attracted new businesses that benefit Silicon Valley."
Giari also modernized port facilities and enhanced the port's waterfront recreation facilities and opportunities for the community, Dodge said.
Port of Redwood City Executive Director Michael J. Giari is expected to retire sometime in the spring, according to the port.
Giari, who plans to retire on May 1 or when a new leader is in place, has been with the Port of Redwood City since 1988. He started as manager of trade development before being promoted to executive director in 1995. Before coming to the port, Giari was an assistant manager of a major waterfront development project and as a marine transportation planner for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
"Mike has been instrumental in helping the port grow and sustain that growth," Commission Chairman Dick Dodge said. "Tonnage across the port docks has more than tripled since Mike assumed his position in 1995 and the Port has attracted new businesses that benefit Silicon Valley."
Giari also modernized port facilities and enhanced the port's waterfront recreation facilities and opportunities for the community, Dodge said.
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Cemex Stays at Redwood City
By Karen Robes Meeks
Cemex Aggregates will continue to be a tenant with the Port of Redwood City for another decade.
Over the summer, the port and Cemex reached a new 10-year lease (with an extension option) for the 8.2-acre marine terminal on Hinman Road.
Port of Redwood City Executive Director Michael J. Giari called Cemex “a responsible tenant and a productive partner with the port in the growth of maritime shipping.”
Cemex has imported close to 4 million metric tons of building materials from Canada in the last three years, including sand and aggregates used in Silicon Valley and Redwood City construction projects.
“The high quality of the sand and gravel aggregates from British Columbia combined with the dwindling supply of these materials in Northern California because quarries are unable to expand have triggered and sustained a strong demand that the port benefited from,” Giari said.
Cemex Aggregates will continue to be a tenant with the Port of Redwood City for another decade.
Over the summer, the port and Cemex reached a new 10-year lease (with an extension option) for the 8.2-acre marine terminal on Hinman Road.
Port of Redwood City Executive Director Michael J. Giari called Cemex “a responsible tenant and a productive partner with the port in the growth of maritime shipping.”
Cemex has imported close to 4 million metric tons of building materials from Canada in the last three years, including sand and aggregates used in Silicon Valley and Redwood City construction projects.
“The high quality of the sand and gravel aggregates from British Columbia combined with the dwindling supply of these materials in Northern California because quarries are unable to expand have triggered and sustained a strong demand that the port benefited from,” Giari said.
