By Karen Robes Meeks
The development of a park on San Diego Bay’s Chula Vista waterfront moved forward recently when harbor leaders at the Port of San Diego approved a Coastal Development Permit for the future Sweetwater Park.
To be located near E Street and Bay Boulevard, the proposed park would be an open space with meadows and specialty garden, walkways and bike paths and other features to complement the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
“The parks that are being designed and planned, including Sweetwater Park, will give us the long-awaited, enhanced shoreline recreation and active commercial harbor we’ve wanted for quite some time in the South Bay,” said Chair Ann Moore, Chula Vista’s representative on the Board of Port Commissioners. “Sweetwater Park, specifically, will allow us to appreciate nature on our bayfront, while also protecting the wildlife habitat, species, and our precious coastal resources.”
Sweetwater Park is one of two parks in the design stage for the Chula Vista Bayfront Project.
Showing posts with label Port of San Diego. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Port of San Diego. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
Cruise Ship Cleared to Dock at Port of San Diego
By Karen Robes Meeks
The cruise ship, Celebrity Eclipse, was able to dock at the Port of San Diego’s B Street terminal last week after precautionary measures were enacted to curb COVID-19 risk exposure.
Before disembarking roughly 2,300 passengers over a two-day period, the port and agency partners made sure passengers and crew completed a CDC COVID-19 survey prior to arrival. Ship staff also conducted temperature monitoring and isolated anyone with symptoms. The cruise ship terminal was cleaned and disinfected and extra hand washing stations were made available.
The decision for the cruise ship to come into port was not taken lightly and involved the US Coast Guard, the Centers for Disease Control, Customs & Border Protection, the California Office of Emergency Services and San Diego County Health and Human Services. According to the port, the Eclipse is the last ship currently scheduled to disembark in San Diego.
The ship is expected to return to San Diego, this week, with only crewmembers onboard after disembarking the remaining 200 passengers to Acapulco, Mexico, as these passengers didn’t have appropriate documentation to enter the US. The crew will remain on board.
“The public may see cruise ships lay berthing (to dock without passengers) or anchoring in and around San Diego Bay until at least mid-April,” the port announced. “Per the cruise lines, crew members still under contract must remain on the ships.”
Cruise ships that are or will be anchored or berthed without passengers in and around San Diego Bay include Regent Seven Seas Splendor, which is set to remain at Broadway Pier until April 11; Disney Wonder, which is docked at the B Street cruise terminal until April 19; and Celebrity Millennium, which docked at B Street Pier on April 2 for supplies.
Visit portofsandiego.org/covid19 for additional information.
The cruise ship, Celebrity Eclipse, was able to dock at the Port of San Diego’s B Street terminal last week after precautionary measures were enacted to curb COVID-19 risk exposure.
Before disembarking roughly 2,300 passengers over a two-day period, the port and agency partners made sure passengers and crew completed a CDC COVID-19 survey prior to arrival. Ship staff also conducted temperature monitoring and isolated anyone with symptoms. The cruise ship terminal was cleaned and disinfected and extra hand washing stations were made available.
The decision for the cruise ship to come into port was not taken lightly and involved the US Coast Guard, the Centers for Disease Control, Customs & Border Protection, the California Office of Emergency Services and San Diego County Health and Human Services. According to the port, the Eclipse is the last ship currently scheduled to disembark in San Diego.
The ship is expected to return to San Diego, this week, with only crewmembers onboard after disembarking the remaining 200 passengers to Acapulco, Mexico, as these passengers didn’t have appropriate documentation to enter the US. The crew will remain on board.
“The public may see cruise ships lay berthing (to dock without passengers) or anchoring in and around San Diego Bay until at least mid-April,” the port announced. “Per the cruise lines, crew members still under contract must remain on the ships.”
Cruise ships that are or will be anchored or berthed without passengers in and around San Diego Bay include Regent Seven Seas Splendor, which is set to remain at Broadway Pier until April 11; Disney Wonder, which is docked at the B Street cruise terminal until April 19; and Celebrity Millennium, which docked at B Street Pier on April 2 for supplies.
Visit portofsandiego.org/covid19 for additional information.
Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Port of San Diego Swears in 2020 Executive Officers
By Karen Robes Meeks
Ann Moore has been sworn in as Chair of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners, with Michael Zucchet as Vice Chair and Dan Malcolm as Secretary.
Moore said her theme for this year is “Port of the Future” and added that the focus will be advancing the Port Master Plan Update and continuing the transformation of the Chula Vista Bayfront.
“I’m inspired by ports around the world that continue to reinvest in their waterfronts to keep them new and fresh to meet changing public needs,” Moore said. “Seattle comes to mind with its Pike Place Market and plans for a waterfront aquarium. Sydney is another premier example with its iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. The best waterfronts don’t remain the same and that’s how I see the Port of San Diego’s role for San Diego Bay – planning for the future while also being flexible so we can continue to evolve.
Ann Moore has been sworn in as Chair of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners, with Michael Zucchet as Vice Chair and Dan Malcolm as Secretary.
Moore said her theme for this year is “Port of the Future” and added that the focus will be advancing the Port Master Plan Update and continuing the transformation of the Chula Vista Bayfront.
“I’m inspired by ports around the world that continue to reinvest in their waterfronts to keep them new and fresh to meet changing public needs,” Moore said. “Seattle comes to mind with its Pike Place Market and plans for a waterfront aquarium. Sydney is another premier example with its iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. The best waterfronts don’t remain the same and that’s how I see the Port of San Diego’s role for San Diego Bay – planning for the future while also being flexible so we can continue to evolve.
Friday, January 17, 2020
Port of San Diego Appoints Interim Port Auditor
By Karen Robes Meeks
Former Assistant Port Auditor Mark Yeilding has been appointed as the Port of San Diego’s Acting Port Auditor. Yeilding, who started in his new role earlier this month, takes over for the retiring Robert “Bob” Monson.
Yeilding, who came to the port in 2014 as an auditor, became Assistant Port Auditor in 2018. He earned a master’s degree in public administration from USC and is a Certified Internal Auditor and Certified Government Auditing Professional.
“Mark has done a superior job in his role as Assistant Port Auditor and has demonstrated that he has the ability to lead the Port Auditor’s Office to be a regional model that will enhance the public’s understanding and trust in the port,” said Port Commission Board Chair Ann Moore. “We are grateful to have him lead the Auditor’s Office during this transition and are confident he will serve the port well in his new capacity.”
Meanwhile, the port said it is searching nationwide to fill the post and is expected to choose someone for the permanent position by the end of this month.
Former Assistant Port Auditor Mark Yeilding has been appointed as the Port of San Diego’s Acting Port Auditor. Yeilding, who started in his new role earlier this month, takes over for the retiring Robert “Bob” Monson.
Yeilding, who came to the port in 2014 as an auditor, became Assistant Port Auditor in 2018. He earned a master’s degree in public administration from USC and is a Certified Internal Auditor and Certified Government Auditing Professional.
“Mark has done a superior job in his role as Assistant Port Auditor and has demonstrated that he has the ability to lead the Port Auditor’s Office to be a regional model that will enhance the public’s understanding and trust in the port,” said Port Commission Board Chair Ann Moore. “We are grateful to have him lead the Auditor’s Office during this transition and are confident he will serve the port well in his new capacity.”
Meanwhile, the port said it is searching nationwide to fill the post and is expected to choose someone for the permanent position by the end of this month.
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
San Diego Seaport Village Gains Tenants
By Karen Robes Meeks
Three popular local businesses will soon call the Port of San Diego’s Seaport Village home.
Port commissioners recently voted to approve leases for Mike Hess Brewing, Mr. Moto Pizza, and Spill the Beans, all of which are expected to open in 2020.
Mike Hess Brewing, which currently has locations in Miramar, North Park, Imperial Beach and Ocean Beach, will occupy a space along the waterfront boardwalk in the Carousel District north of the Pier Café. It will feature a beer tasting room and patio area with a full-service restaurant.
Mr. Moto Pizza will open its sixth location taking the space adjacent to Mike Hess Brewing in the Carousel District.
Opening a second location, specialty coffee and bagel shop Spill the Beans will move in to Seaport Village’s Lighthouse District across from the Marriott Marina near San Pasqual Winery.
“The port is thrilled to bring some new and established local favorites to the San Diego Bay waterfront for the enjoyment of San Diegans as well as those who visit us from across the country and around the world,” said Port Board Chairman Garry Bonelli. “These new tenants will help bring fresh energy and vitality to the diverse shops, unique eateries and outdoor entertainment already offered at the vibrant harbor-side hub.”
Three popular local businesses will soon call the Port of San Diego’s Seaport Village home.
Port commissioners recently voted to approve leases for Mike Hess Brewing, Mr. Moto Pizza, and Spill the Beans, all of which are expected to open in 2020.
Mike Hess Brewing, which currently has locations in Miramar, North Park, Imperial Beach and Ocean Beach, will occupy a space along the waterfront boardwalk in the Carousel District north of the Pier Café. It will feature a beer tasting room and patio area with a full-service restaurant.
Mr. Moto Pizza will open its sixth location taking the space adjacent to Mike Hess Brewing in the Carousel District.
Opening a second location, specialty coffee and bagel shop Spill the Beans will move in to Seaport Village’s Lighthouse District across from the Marriott Marina near San Pasqual Winery.
“The port is thrilled to bring some new and established local favorites to the San Diego Bay waterfront for the enjoyment of San Diegans as well as those who visit us from across the country and around the world,” said Port Board Chairman Garry Bonelli. “These new tenants will help bring fresh energy and vitality to the diverse shops, unique eateries and outdoor entertainment already offered at the vibrant harbor-side hub.”
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
San Diego Port to Purchase Renewable
Diesel Vehicles
By Karen Robes Meeks
Port of San Diego harbor leaders voted earlier this month to approve the $700,000 purchase of seven vehicles to add to the port’s work fleet. The trucks will be powered by renewable diesel.
The Board of Port Commissioners authorized the agreement with 72 Hour LLC, DBA National Auto Fleet Group. The purchase includes one 10-yard dump truck, two ¾-ton crew cab pick-up trucks, one ¾-ton utility gardener truck, one ¾-ton crew cab stake bed truck, one long-bed cargo stake truck and one refuse packer/loader. The contract also includes two gas-powered mid-sized SUVs to replace two older fleet vehicles.
“The use of renewable diesel will help the Port meet its Climate Action Plan goals to curb greenhouse gas emissions along San Diego Bay and its tidelands,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “The Port’s greenhouse gas emissions have decreased 13 percent since 2006 and the purchase of these vehicles will help to further decrease air pollution.”
Port of San Diego harbor leaders voted earlier this month to approve the $700,000 purchase of seven vehicles to add to the port’s work fleet. The trucks will be powered by renewable diesel.
The Board of Port Commissioners authorized the agreement with 72 Hour LLC, DBA National Auto Fleet Group. The purchase includes one 10-yard dump truck, two ¾-ton crew cab pick-up trucks, one ¾-ton utility gardener truck, one ¾-ton crew cab stake bed truck, one long-bed cargo stake truck and one refuse packer/loader. The contract also includes two gas-powered mid-sized SUVs to replace two older fleet vehicles.
“The use of renewable diesel will help the Port meet its Climate Action Plan goals to curb greenhouse gas emissions along San Diego Bay and its tidelands,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “The Port’s greenhouse gas emissions have decreased 13 percent since 2006 and the purchase of these vehicles will help to further decrease air pollution.”
Friday, November 1, 2019
Port of San Diego Honored by Environmental Professionals
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego recently netted a pair of prestigious awards from the San Diego chapter of the Association of Environmental Professionals.The association gave its Outstanding Technical Report Award to the port’s Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment and Coastal Resiliency Report, which looks at how the port plans to address projected sea level rise and studies its environmental and financial impacts.
The port also teamed up with the California State Lands Commission for the San Diego Ocean Planning Partnership Preliminary Assessment Report, which earned them the association’s Outstanding Public Involvement Award.
“As an environmental champion of San Diego Bay and its tidelands, the Port of San Diego is committed to making sure these public lands will be protected so that they may be enjoyed by future generations,” said Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners, Garry Bonelli. “Port staff did an exceptional job ensuring that the Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment and Coastal Resiliency Report reflected this. Additionally, port staff and State Lands Commission staff have underscored the importance of public involvement to help understand ocean planning. The port is honored to be recognized for its efforts on both of these reports.”
For more information on the port’s Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment and Coastal Resiliency Report, visit portofsandiego.org. Additional information on the San Diego Ocean Planning Partnership Preliminary Assessment Report can be found at sdoceanplanning.org.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
San Diego Seeks Park Input
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista are asking stakeholders to weigh in on the future Harbor and Sweetwater Parks at a final Design Workshop scheduled for Nov. 18, 2019.
Combined, those two parks will represent over half of the new park space planned for the Chula Vista Bayfront development.
Following the completion of the designs, staff will perform an environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) before coming back to the board to seek authorization for Coastal Development Permits sometime next year.
The Design Workshop will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the City of Chula Vista Public Library Civic Center Branch, 365 F Street in Chula Vista.
Visit portofsandiego.org/chulavistabayfront for more information on the development.
The Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista are asking stakeholders to weigh in on the future Harbor and Sweetwater Parks at a final Design Workshop scheduled for Nov. 18, 2019.
Combined, those two parks will represent over half of the new park space planned for the Chula Vista Bayfront development.
Following the completion of the designs, staff will perform an environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) before coming back to the board to seek authorization for Coastal Development Permits sometime next year.
The Design Workshop will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the City of Chula Vista Public Library Civic Center Branch, 365 F Street in Chula Vista.
Visit portofsandiego.org/chulavistabayfront for more information on the development.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
San Diego to Test LED Lighting
By Karen Robes Meeks
Efforts to illuminate the San Diego-Coronado Bridge just got brighter.
The Port of San Diego recently received approval from the California Coastal Commission to temporarily put in LED lights on four of the bridge’s mid-span piers for a one-week test to be performed between dusk and midnight, the port confirmed.
The test is part of a fact-finding mission that will be needed to commence the project’s environmental review and hopefully lead to a permanent bridge lighting display.
“Our vision for this project is to inspire and connect people to San Diego Bay through the fusion of art and technology,” said Commissioner Marshall Merrifield, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “We’ve achieved another important milestone in this project that, if ultimately approved, would transform the San Diego-Coronado Bridge into a signature, iconic artwork for our urban landscape.”
Efforts to illuminate the San Diego-Coronado Bridge just got brighter.
The Port of San Diego recently received approval from the California Coastal Commission to temporarily put in LED lights on four of the bridge’s mid-span piers for a one-week test to be performed between dusk and midnight, the port confirmed.
The test is part of a fact-finding mission that will be needed to commence the project’s environmental review and hopefully lead to a permanent bridge lighting display.
“Our vision for this project is to inspire and connect people to San Diego Bay through the fusion of art and technology,” said Commissioner Marshall Merrifield, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “We’ve achieved another important milestone in this project that, if ultimately approved, would transform the San Diego-Coronado Bridge into a signature, iconic artwork for our urban landscape.”
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
San Diego Seeks Input on Charter Regulations
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego is seeking input on proposed changes to its charter vessel regulations, Port Code Section 4.37.
The proposal would affect charter vessels that operate in San Diego Bay marinas and sportfishing landings starting January 2020. It would allow the port to “issue permits to qualified charter vessel operators who conduct their businesses outside of a marina or sportfishing landing”. The port would collect the related license agreement fees from those operators.
Currently, unpermitted vessel charters operate in San Diego Bay and some lack proper insurance or operate under unsafe conditions, according to the port.
The outreach meeting will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the Port Administration Building, 3165 Pacific Highway, San Diego 92101. The public may also submit feedback at charters@portofsandiego.org.
For more information on the proposal, visit https://pantheonstorage.blob.core.windows.net/maritime/Draft-Proposed-Updates-Port-Charter-Vessel-Regulations.pdf.
The Port of San Diego is seeking input on proposed changes to its charter vessel regulations, Port Code Section 4.37.
The proposal would affect charter vessels that operate in San Diego Bay marinas and sportfishing landings starting January 2020. It would allow the port to “issue permits to qualified charter vessel operators who conduct their businesses outside of a marina or sportfishing landing”. The port would collect the related license agreement fees from those operators.
Currently, unpermitted vessel charters operate in San Diego Bay and some lack proper insurance or operate under unsafe conditions, according to the port.
The outreach meeting will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the Port Administration Building, 3165 Pacific Highway, San Diego 92101. The public may also submit feedback at charters@portofsandiego.org.
For more information on the proposal, visit https://pantheonstorage.blob.core.windows.net/maritime/Draft-Proposed-Updates-Port-Charter-Vessel-Regulations.pdf.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
New Symphony Venue Coming to Port of San Diego
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego and the San Diego Symphony recently broke ground on the Bayside Performance Park project in the Port’s Embarcadero Marina Park South.
The waterfront-enhancing “park within a park” project will feature a new, permanent performance venue for the symphony, a wider public promenade and new or upgraded benches, basketball courts and exercise equipment, gazebo, lighting, and restrooms.
"Today marks the end of a nearly four-year process that brought together the Port of San Diego and the San Diego Symphony Orchestra in creating a new vision for the tidelands,” said Martha Gilmer, San Diego Symphony CEO. "Now we begin working together to build a remarkable project designed to bring this park alive with music and activities for everyone in our community.”
Construction is expected to be completed by next summer, in time for the beginning of the Bayside Summer Nights concert series.
“The San Diego Symphony is a wonderful partner. We couldn’t be more pleased that we’ve moved into the construction phase with the first concerts scheduled to begin next summer,” said Chairman Garry Bonelli, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The Symphony’s $45 million minimum investment will create a stunning year-round performance venue right on the San Diego Bay waterfront and provide a new and improved public park that everyone can enjoy.”
The Port of San Diego and the San Diego Symphony recently broke ground on the Bayside Performance Park project in the Port’s Embarcadero Marina Park South.
The waterfront-enhancing “park within a park” project will feature a new, permanent performance venue for the symphony, a wider public promenade and new or upgraded benches, basketball courts and exercise equipment, gazebo, lighting, and restrooms.
"Today marks the end of a nearly four-year process that brought together the Port of San Diego and the San Diego Symphony Orchestra in creating a new vision for the tidelands,” said Martha Gilmer, San Diego Symphony CEO. "Now we begin working together to build a remarkable project designed to bring this park alive with music and activities for everyone in our community.”
Construction is expected to be completed by next summer, in time for the beginning of the Bayside Summer Nights concert series.
“The San Diego Symphony is a wonderful partner. We couldn’t be more pleased that we’ve moved into the construction phase with the first concerts scheduled to begin next summer,” said Chairman Garry Bonelli, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The Symphony’s $45 million minimum investment will create a stunning year-round performance venue right on the San Diego Bay waterfront and provide a new and improved public park that everyone can enjoy.”
Friday, September 6, 2019
Port of San Diego Wins Fifth Award
By Karen Robes Meeks
For the fifth straight year, the Port of San Diego has earned a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for the United States and Canada.
The port garnered the honor for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, which also earned the port’s Financial Services Department an Award of Financial Reporting Achievement.
“The Port of San Diego remains steadfast in providing full disclosure and receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for five consecutive years demonstrates just that,” said Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners, Garry Bonelli. “We are a self-funded public agency, dedicated to serving the public and managing the magnificent tidelands of San Diego Bay.”
For the fifth straight year, the Port of San Diego has earned a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for the United States and Canada.
The port garnered the honor for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, which also earned the port’s Financial Services Department an Award of Financial Reporting Achievement.
“The Port of San Diego remains steadfast in providing full disclosure and receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for five consecutive years demonstrates just that,” said Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners, Garry Bonelli. “We are a self-funded public agency, dedicated to serving the public and managing the magnificent tidelands of San Diego Bay.”
Tuesday, September 3, 2019
San Diego to Release Multimodal Study Results
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego is ready to share the findings of its Harbor Drive Multimodal Corridor Study. The document lays out the issues and looks at potential improvement opportunities regarding usage of Harbor Drive between the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and the National City Marine Terminal, the area known as the Working Waterfront.
The port wants to improve the safety and mobility of Harbor Drive and is presenting the study’s findings before a final plan comes before the Board of Port Commissioners this fall.
“While we have evaluated challenges and solutions to improve Harbor Drive, we know no single improvement can enhance mobility in this critical goods movement corridor,” said Garry Bonelli, chairman of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Yet, the Port, in concert with our transportation partner agencies, are eager to make progress for our entire community – while balancing the costs, benefits and impacts to everyone involved.”
An open house on the study will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the National City Aquatic Center in Pepper Park, 3300 Goesno Place, National City, California, 91950.
For more information, including a list of possible projects suggested by the study, go to www.portofsandiego.org/HarborDriveStudy.
The Port of San Diego is ready to share the findings of its Harbor Drive Multimodal Corridor Study. The document lays out the issues and looks at potential improvement opportunities regarding usage of Harbor Drive between the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and the National City Marine Terminal, the area known as the Working Waterfront.
The port wants to improve the safety and mobility of Harbor Drive and is presenting the study’s findings before a final plan comes before the Board of Port Commissioners this fall.
“While we have evaluated challenges and solutions to improve Harbor Drive, we know no single improvement can enhance mobility in this critical goods movement corridor,” said Garry Bonelli, chairman of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Yet, the Port, in concert with our transportation partner agencies, are eager to make progress for our entire community – while balancing the costs, benefits and impacts to everyone involved.”
An open house on the study will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the National City Aquatic Center in Pepper Park, 3300 Goesno Place, National City, California, 91950.
For more information, including a list of possible projects suggested by the study, go to www.portofsandiego.org/HarborDriveStudy.
Friday, July 12, 2019
San Diego Partners with ecoSPEARS
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego is partnering with startup cleantech solutions firm ecoSPEARS Inc., on a two-year pilot project to test its remediation technology as part of its Blue Economy Incubator program.
The company, which is exclusive licensee of the NASA-patented SPEARS technology, is developing “a cost-effective and eco-friendly cleanup solution to extract and destroy toxic contaminants from sediment, soil and groundwater,” according to the port.
The spiky-shaped SPEARS (Sorbent Polymer Extraction and Remediation System) get filled with a special eco-friendly cleaning solution before they are dropped into contaminated areas and soak up the pollution like sponges.
“ecoSPEARS is a great fit for our Blue Economy Incubator and aligns well with the port’s vision to support commerce, community and the environment,” said Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners Garry Bonelli. “We look forward to seeing what SPEARS can do and how this technology can make a difference in San Diego Bay.”
As part of the program, SPEARS will be deployed at three locations in San Diego Bay to see how much PCB mass can be collected over a specific time period. The company will also demonstrate its Additive Desorption System for sampled dredged dewatered sediments collected during the pilot project in San Diego Bay.
The ecoSPEARS pilot is the seventh project approved under the port’s Blue Economy Incubator.
The Port of San Diego is partnering with startup cleantech solutions firm ecoSPEARS Inc., on a two-year pilot project to test its remediation technology as part of its Blue Economy Incubator program.
The company, which is exclusive licensee of the NASA-patented SPEARS technology, is developing “a cost-effective and eco-friendly cleanup solution to extract and destroy toxic contaminants from sediment, soil and groundwater,” according to the port.
The spiky-shaped SPEARS (Sorbent Polymer Extraction and Remediation System) get filled with a special eco-friendly cleaning solution before they are dropped into contaminated areas and soak up the pollution like sponges.
“ecoSPEARS is a great fit for our Blue Economy Incubator and aligns well with the port’s vision to support commerce, community and the environment,” said Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners Garry Bonelli. “We look forward to seeing what SPEARS can do and how this technology can make a difference in San Diego Bay.”
As part of the program, SPEARS will be deployed at three locations in San Diego Bay to see how much PCB mass can be collected over a specific time period. The company will also demonstrate its Additive Desorption System for sampled dredged dewatered sediments collected during the pilot project in San Diego Bay.
The ecoSPEARS pilot is the seventh project approved under the port’s Blue Economy Incubator.
Thursday, June 27, 2019
San Diego Earns Green Certificate
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of San Diego has earned an environmental certification from Green Marine, a voluntary environmental certification program for the maritime sector.
The port, which enacted its Green Port Program in 2008, was evaluated and ranked at the top on several areas, including efforts to lower greenhouse gas and air emissions, spill prevention, leadership on environmental issues, waste management and underwater noise.
“The Port of San Diego is a champion for the environmental health of San Diego Bay and its tidelands,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “To have our initiatives evaluated and verified with such outstanding results demonstrates that our environmental efforts are working. We will continue the Port’s diligence to protect the bay so that it can be enjoyed by our residents and visitors for generations to come.”
The Port of San Diego has earned an environmental certification from Green Marine, a voluntary environmental certification program for the maritime sector.
The port, which enacted its Green Port Program in 2008, was evaluated and ranked at the top on several areas, including efforts to lower greenhouse gas and air emissions, spill prevention, leadership on environmental issues, waste management and underwater noise.
“The Port of San Diego is a champion for the environmental health of San Diego Bay and its tidelands,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “To have our initiatives evaluated and verified with such outstanding results demonstrates that our environmental efforts are working. We will continue the Port’s diligence to protect the bay so that it can be enjoyed by our residents and visitors for generations to come.”
Friday, May 31, 2019
New Hotel Concept at San Diego
By Karen Robes Meeks
The STAY OPEN hospitality team has been selected by the Port of San Diego to develop and run a new shared, affordable hospitality pod hotel concept.
The proposed hotel would include 220 self-contained pods (33 rooms with eight to 12 pods per room). Each pod would have a single bed, storage locker, power supply, ventilation control, closeable screen for privacy and security, and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel would also include shared bathroom with shower facilities similar to a high-end fitness center, six private Ensuite rooms with private bathrooms and queen and twin beds for couples and families and rooftop space with a restaurant, bar and outdoor seating open to the public.
“STAY OPEN’s innovative ‘shared hospitality’ concept really stood out, as it is geared towards the traveler that is looking to stay in prime locations without breaking the bank or sacrificing the experience,” said Chairman Garry Bonelli, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The STAY OPEN team has a successful track record of developing and operating high quality, lower-cost overnight accommodations globally. We look forward to having them as a partner.”
The STAY OPEN hospitality team has been selected by the Port of San Diego to develop and run a new shared, affordable hospitality pod hotel concept.
The proposed hotel would include 220 self-contained pods (33 rooms with eight to 12 pods per room). Each pod would have a single bed, storage locker, power supply, ventilation control, closeable screen for privacy and security, and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel would also include shared bathroom with shower facilities similar to a high-end fitness center, six private Ensuite rooms with private bathrooms and queen and twin beds for couples and families and rooftop space with a restaurant, bar and outdoor seating open to the public.
“STAY OPEN’s innovative ‘shared hospitality’ concept really stood out, as it is geared towards the traveler that is looking to stay in prime locations without breaking the bank or sacrificing the experience,” said Chairman Garry Bonelli, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The STAY OPEN team has a successful track record of developing and operating high quality, lower-cost overnight accommodations globally. We look forward to having them as a partner.”
Tuesday, March 12, 2019
San Diego Waterfront Park Proposed
By Karen Robes Meeks
The public is invited to weigh in on the future Harbor and Sweetwater Parks on the Chula Vista Bayfront.
The proposed parks represent more than 50 percent of the new park space planned for the Chula Vista Bayfront. Feedback on the designs will help inform the look and feel of these new green spaces. KTU+A and Jacob Petersen with Petersen Studio are the design teams.
The much larger Harbor Park will offer “signature amenities, recreational opportunities and programming,” while Sweetwater Park will connect visitors with the natural resources of the bayfront, according to the port.
The Sweetwater Park Design Workshop is set for 6 p.m. on March 20 at the City of Chula Vista Public Library, Civic Center Branch, located at 365 F St. in Chula Vista.
The public is invited to weigh in on the future Harbor and Sweetwater Parks on the Chula Vista Bayfront.
The proposed parks represent more than 50 percent of the new park space planned for the Chula Vista Bayfront. Feedback on the designs will help inform the look and feel of these new green spaces. KTU+A and Jacob Petersen with Petersen Studio are the design teams.
The much larger Harbor Park will offer “signature amenities, recreational opportunities and programming,” while Sweetwater Park will connect visitors with the natural resources of the bayfront, according to the port.
The Sweetwater Park Design Workshop is set for 6 p.m. on March 20 at the City of Chula Vista Public Library, Civic Center Branch, located at 365 F St. in Chula Vista.
Friday, February 22, 2019
San Diego Microgrid Planned
By Karen Robes Meeks
Work is expected to begin in March to upgrade the infrastructure needed to support a renewable, solar-powered microgrid at the Port of San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Last week, the Board of Port Commissioners awarded Chambers, Inc. nearly $1.6 million to replace the roof of warehouse B with a new, lighter and more durable single-ply Thermoplastic Polyolefin membrane roof system. The construction is expected to be completed by December 2019.
The roof work is part of the larger $9.6 million microgrid project, which is funded by a grant from the California Energy Commission and other matching funds.
With installation expected by summer 2020, the microgrid will help address the need for renewable energy at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. It will also help lower greenhouse gas emissions, save the port about $168,000 in utility rates annually and allows the terminal to run for about 12 hours without connecting to the larger electrical grid. The microgrid will feature solar photovoltaic panels. Other component of the project includes battery energy storage, a centralized microgrid controller and other electrical and energy efficiency improvements. It will also give backup energy to port facilities, powering security infrastructure, lights, offices, and the existing jet fuel storage system.
“The Microgrid Project will not only help us reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, it will also make us more resilient in the event of natural or human-caused disasters that impact the electric grid,” said Board of Port Commissioners Chairman Garry Bonelli. “With the added bonus of reducing energy costs, this project is good for the community, for businesses on the terminal, and for the port.”
Work is expected to begin in March to upgrade the infrastructure needed to support a renewable, solar-powered microgrid at the Port of San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Last week, the Board of Port Commissioners awarded Chambers, Inc. nearly $1.6 million to replace the roof of warehouse B with a new, lighter and more durable single-ply Thermoplastic Polyolefin membrane roof system. The construction is expected to be completed by December 2019.
The roof work is part of the larger $9.6 million microgrid project, which is funded by a grant from the California Energy Commission and other matching funds.
With installation expected by summer 2020, the microgrid will help address the need for renewable energy at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. It will also help lower greenhouse gas emissions, save the port about $168,000 in utility rates annually and allows the terminal to run for about 12 hours without connecting to the larger electrical grid. The microgrid will feature solar photovoltaic panels. Other component of the project includes battery energy storage, a centralized microgrid controller and other electrical and energy efficiency improvements. It will also give backup energy to port facilities, powering security infrastructure, lights, offices, and the existing jet fuel storage system.
“The Microgrid Project will not only help us reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, it will also make us more resilient in the event of natural or human-caused disasters that impact the electric grid,” said Board of Port Commissioners Chairman Garry Bonelli. “With the added bonus of reducing energy costs, this project is good for the community, for businesses on the terminal, and for the port.”
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
New Cruise Lines for San Diego
By Karen Robes Meeks
Last week, the Port of San Diego welcomed two European cruise lines that made their inaugural calls to the port, a sign that the “cruise business is bouncing back,” the port announced.
The 964-foot-long, 3,000-passenger MSC Magnifica arrived Feb. 5 as part of a 118-day global cruise visiting two dozen countries. On Feb. 8, German Cruise Line Phoenix Reisen’s 757-foot-long, 1,260-passenger Artania stopped in San Diego during its 116-day global cruise. Both trips started in Genoa, Italy, and are making their way along the California coast.
“The Port of San Diego is proud to welcome MSC Magnifica and the Phoenix Reisen Artania on their inaugural visits,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “These Port calls highlight the diversity of our cruise line customers and strengthen San Diego’s reputation as a world-class destination for vacations.”
The port expects about 92 cruise calls and nearly 300,000 passengers in fiscal year 2019-2020.
Last week, the Port of San Diego welcomed two European cruise lines that made their inaugural calls to the port, a sign that the “cruise business is bouncing back,” the port announced.
The 964-foot-long, 3,000-passenger MSC Magnifica arrived Feb. 5 as part of a 118-day global cruise visiting two dozen countries. On Feb. 8, German Cruise Line Phoenix Reisen’s 757-foot-long, 1,260-passenger Artania stopped in San Diego during its 116-day global cruise. Both trips started in Genoa, Italy, and are making their way along the California coast.
“The Port of San Diego is proud to welcome MSC Magnifica and the Phoenix Reisen Artania on their inaugural visits,” said Garry Bonelli, Chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “These Port calls highlight the diversity of our cruise line customers and strengthen San Diego’s reputation as a world-class destination for vacations.”
The port expects about 92 cruise calls and nearly 300,000 passengers in fiscal year 2019-2020.
Friday, February 8, 2019
San Diego Master Plan Workshops
By Karen Robes Meeks
This month, the Port of San Diego is hosting two public workshops to gather feedback on its Integrated Planning Port Master Plan Update (PMPU), the blueprint for developing the 6,000 acres of waterfront property within the port, which includes the Embarcadero area.
The public is invited to weigh in on “the preferred uses for the Embarcadero, specifically North and Central Embarcadero, because of the great interest both residents and visitors have in this highly visible area,” according to the port. “The feedback will be used in developing policies within the PMPU, the culmination of the Port’s Integrated Planning initiative, which is currently being drafted.”
The workshops are set to begin at10 a.m. on Feb. 12 and on Feb. 25 at the Port of San Diego Administration Building, 3165 Pacific Highway in San Diego, California.
For more about the PMPU, visit portofsandiego.org/integrated-planning.
This month, the Port of San Diego is hosting two public workshops to gather feedback on its Integrated Planning Port Master Plan Update (PMPU), the blueprint for developing the 6,000 acres of waterfront property within the port, which includes the Embarcadero area.
The public is invited to weigh in on “the preferred uses for the Embarcadero, specifically North and Central Embarcadero, because of the great interest both residents and visitors have in this highly visible area,” according to the port. “The feedback will be used in developing policies within the PMPU, the culmination of the Port’s Integrated Planning initiative, which is currently being drafted.”
The workshops are set to begin at10 a.m. on Feb. 12 and on Feb. 25 at the Port of San Diego Administration Building, 3165 Pacific Highway in San Diego, California.
For more about the PMPU, visit portofsandiego.org/integrated-planning.
