The Port of Oakland has secured approximately US$50 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) to modernize wharves and terminal infrastructure at its Outer Harbor.
These upgrades aim to facilitate the accommodation of Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) at the Californian port, now a common feature of West Coast shipping routes. With handling capacities of up to 24,000 TEUs, these modern vessels are currently constrained by outdated wharves at portions of the Outer Harbor, which were originally designed for smaller ships.
“We are grateful to Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Senator Alex Padilla, and the Bay Area congressional delegation for their support for this MARAD grant. This federal funding will help us improve infrastructure that will make the Oakland Seaport a cleaner, safer, and more efficient international gateway for moving imports and exports,” stated Danny Wansaid, Port of Oakland Executive Director.
US government injects US$580 million investment into port sector
This federal grant will bolster the US Port’s multi-year initiative to upgrade its facilities, aligning with its transition to zero-emissions operations. The total project cost for the Outer Harbor improvements is estimated at US$66 million. Upon completion, the enhanced infrastructure will ensure long-term operational efficiency, productivity, and flexibility.
“We thank the U.S. Maritime Administration for this funding that will assist in modernizing our Outer Harbor wharf to better accommodate the safe and efficient movement of ultra-large ships that call Oakland. It is essential that we upgrade infrastructure because the Oakland Seaport is a critical artery for commerce in Northern California,” commented Bryan Brandes, Port of Oakland Maritime Director.
The project includes strengthening the wharf, performing structural repairs, replacing container crane rails, adding support piles, and reinforcing support beams. Additionally, the electrical bus bar system will be replaced to accommodate larger ship-to-shore cranes.
