Maritime Fun Fact: In 1565, the first recorded act of international waterborne commerce in the New World occurred in Jacksonville, Florida, making it America’s First Port.

It’s an honor to lead a team that connects the broader Silicon Valley region to global markets – serving as an international gateway for goods movement. Goods movement via ocean vessels helps the Port prioritize efficiency and sustainability to support the local and regional economy.

Using vessels to exchange goods regionally and globally keeps our economy resilient while reducing the Port’s carbon footprint. I’m excited to share that through a newly awarded grant, the Port is furthering its sustainability practices and reducing its carbon footprint.  

Thanks to the funding support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Climate and Air Quality Planning Grant will transform Port sustainability practices through decarbonizing Port and local tenant operations. 

In addition to environmental stewardship, an important part of being a leading West Coast foreign trade agency is safeguarding operations from outside threats. The Port also received grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program, which supports sustainable operations protecting port infrastructure from terrorism. 

I also want to remind our community to join the Port for the final Rock the Dock performance of 2024. These concerts are a great opportunity to gather as a community, appreciate our waterfront and enjoy local talented artists.

Warm Regards,

Kristine A. Zortman

Executive Director

Water transport: the sustainable way to move cargo

When people think of port shipping methods, vessels are the first to come to mind. What if we told you the Port is inter-modal, meaning it imports and exports goods using water, rail and roads to maximize sustainability? Furthermore, can you guess which modality is most efficient? If you guessed water, you’re correct!   

Imagine driving a freight truck 2,800 times to transport a small portion of goods to another region. It’s a long journey that emits a slew of emissions, but that’s where water transport comes in. The capacity of a vessel is exponentially greater than that of a freight truck. Moving goods by water eliminates long freight journeys and lessens truck diesel emissions, driver fatigue and traffic congestion. 

These shorter trips increase efficiency and minimize shipment delays that can occur on local roadways and rails. It’s also more cost-effective, benefiting the local and regional economy. 

Final Rock the Dock performances 

Mark your calendars for the final Rock the Dock lineup of 2024. Join the Port of Redwood City this Saturday, Nov. 23, to fill your night with rockin’ jams next to the beautiful waterfront at the Port. On-site parking is free, and the Port encourages you to show off your best dance moves during our local musicians’ top hits!  

Now that it’s daylight savings time, concerts will begin promptly at 2 p.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. Bring a cozy jacket and/or blanket to keep warm and don’t forget to stop by the local food vendors who will be there to fuel the crowd.  

November lineup: 

• Nov. 23: Rock, dance and pop from Fast Times

Port receives millions in funding from the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Homeland Security to advance its maritime operations

The Port of Redwood City was awarded $1.9 million from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) via a Climate and Air Quality Planning Grant and $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security via the Port Security Grant Program.

Climate and Air Quality Planning Grant

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced that they are providing more than $1 billion to seven California ports through their Clean Ports Program. The Port received $1.9 million of that funding to develop a decarbonization plan for Port and tenant operations through 2050. Various phases of the project will offer collaboration opportunities with key stakeholders and the public. 

This funding reflects a partnership between the Port and EPA to shape the future of Port operations and safeguard the environment.

Port Security Grant Program

The Port of Redwood City also received $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Port Security Grant Program, which supports sustainable operations protecting port infrastructure from terrorism. The grant will amplify surveillance and equip first responders with advanced training and equipment to meet the Port’s needs during an emergency. These investments help strengthen the Port as a Federal Staging Area to protect the South Francisco Bay region.  

This funding furthers the following projects: 

• Cybersecurity Infrastructure Power Vulnerability Assessment 
• Cybersecurity and Soft Target Protection Support Equipment 
• Exercise Support 
• DHS/FEMA Approved Training for Port Staff and First Responders
• 36’ Law Enforcement Patrol Vessel