The comment period for the second draft of the Integrated Feasibility Report (IFR) for the Harbour Turning Basins Widening Navigation Study at the Port of Oakland has closed.
The conclusion of the comment period marks the start of the next phase of the Port of Oakland’s planned project.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) investigation began on 31 May 2022, and is scheduled to be available for public review and comment later this year.
The turning basins project is led by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), with the Port of Oakland serving as the local sponsor and CEQA lead agency.
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Port of Oakland Maritime Director, Bryan Brandes, said: “The port is pleased to be moving the proposed project along in partnership with USACE to meet the demands of an evolving shipping industry and delivering on the port’s continued focus on improving goods movement efficiencies and environmental stewardship.”
The proposed project includes widening both turning basins to accommodate vessels up to 1,310 feet in length.
According to the Port of Oakland, the benefits of widening the turning basins include:
- Safer navigation for big ships
- Improved waterway operational efficiencies resulting in more efficient goods movement
- Reduced delays and ship idling time at anchorage
- Improved flexibility to connect to shore power at dock
- Reduced vessel emissions and environmental impact per container
The feasibility study is expected to be completed in June 2024, after which the engineering design and pre-construction phases might commence.
This phase is anticipated to span through 2026, with construction possibly starting in 2027 and ending in 2029.
Furthermore, full container volumes (including imports and exports) at the port increased by 18 per cent in May.
