1. Make rail improvements and upgrade inter-modal facilities

A collaboration of the cluster, the Port of Oakland, Union Pacific & BNSF and others helped secure state infrastructure bond funds for improving bottlenecks at rail access improvements at Donner Pass; the Tehachapi Pass; and the Martinez subdivision.  To handle projected increases in container volume, the Port is working with UP, BNSF and other partners to expand existing inter-modal facilities in order to facilitate the movement of containers onto and off of railcars, reducing the number of truck trips and easing congestion and improving air quality at and near the Port.

Champions: Port of Oakland; BNSF; UP; Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce; East Bay Economic Development Alliance; Bay Area Council; Metropolitan Transportation Commission

2. Oakland Army Base to be left as an industrially-zoned area of the city

The Trade & Logistics Cluster has submitted a letter to the Oakland City Council stating that a significant portion of the City of Oakland’s portion of the old Oakland Army Base should be left zoned industrial so that it could be used for maritime trade and logistics uses or for uses compatible with a working, expanding port.  This would allow for greater synergies with the Port as it develops its side of the Army Base, allowing for more efficient development and densities of maritime uses on both sides.  This also will allow greater proximity to key customer support providers such as a trans-shippers and cross-dock loaders.  Proximity to the Port and better coordination of logistics service providers will allow for a reduction in the number of “moves” (truck and rail trips) and the health risks associated with them.  It will also result in cost reductions that will enhance the ability of T&L companies to compete internationally while keeping their jobs local.

The City of Oakland is conducting an RFQ/RFP process to select a master developer for the Army Base.  It is considering a variety of land use options in this process, including a strong focus on trade and logistics.

Champion:  T&L Cluster (coordinated by OMCC).