Port of Oakland highlights growth and sustainability plans

Port of Oakland Executive Director Kristi McKenney has outlined the port’s progress, challenges, and opportunities during her first annual State of the Port keynote address.

Port of Oakland highlights growth and sustainability plans

McKenney thanked more than 275 business, community, and elected partners in attendance for their collaboration to advance the Bay Area economy.

She said: “We are proud the Port of Oakland supports nearly 100,000 regional jobs and serves as a vital economic engine for the East Bay and greater Bay Area. None of it is possible without our partners.”

McKenney said maritime operations remained steady year-on-year (YoY) – outperforming expectations due in part to the port’s balanced import-export strategy.

“Our 50/50 cargo mix protects us from extreme market swings and continues to build resilience,” she added.

Looking ahead, the port anticipates economic improvement in 2026, including construction of new 450-foot-tall cranes at TraPac Terminal and continued progress on the Turning Basins Widening Project.

The port is also accelerating decarbonisation efforts by transitioning to zero-emission cargo equipment and trucks and strengthening its electrical grid with renewable and carbon-free power.

These efforts are all being undertaken in close collaboration and partnership with a wide range of West and East Oakland community members and organisations who continue to advance the $322 million Clean Ports federal grant that the port received in 2024.

Last month, the Port of Oakland announced the appointment of Justin Berton to serve as its new Director of Communications, effective 28 January 2026.