The port commission approved environmental mitigation measures almost two years ago, but changes had to be made, stemming from the settlement of a lawsuit filed by the West Oakland Environmental Indicators Project (WOEIP) and the Attorney General of California’s Office.

The lawsuit alleged that the port did not adequately evaluate and mitigate the terminal’s air pollution impacts when it approved the terminal.

“Working alongside Eagle Rock and our West Oakland community, we are bringing bulk shipping to the Port of Oakland that is more sustainable and further reduces impacts on the environment and surrounding communities,” said Port Executive Director Danny Wan. “We are dedicated to achieving zero-emissions operations, and we are working with our business partners across our operations to achieve this goal.” 

The agreement with the WOEIP takes steps to enhance mitigation of the potential impact​s​ from the bulk terminal and ensure community engagement and future environmental protection by:  

• Using shore power to reduce emissions from bulk vessels  
• Accelerating the use of all-electric or other zero-emissions equipment at the site  
• Constructing at-berth power outlets to increase zero-emissions capabilities 
• Requiring regular reporting to assure community oversight of compliance regarding terminal operations; 
• For many future port projects, the port will prepare a new air quality analysis based on current data rather than rely on the 2002 Oakland Army Base Environmental Impact Report. 

Once in operation, the bulk marine terminal will import up to 2.5 Mtpa per year of high quality washed concrete sand and aggregates. These products will be used for concrete production in public and private projects throughout the region. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 

“For 25 years, West Oakland Environmental Indicators Project has fought to reduce the deadly impacts of emissions from the freight industry​ at and around the Port​​,​​”​ says Ms. Margaret Gordon, Co-Director of the neighborhood-based organization, WOEIP.

“This settlement is another step in the right direction to protect the health and well-being of the people ’just across the freeway’ from the Port. We look to the Port Board of Commissioners to be diligent in protecting our community from harm when considering future Port expansion projects.” 

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Eagle Rock President Scott Dryden said: “Our work supports the foundations of the east span of the Bay Bridge to ongoing critical infrastructure and the rising new face of downtown Oakland. We are excited to continue serving the Bay Area and to solidify the collaborative relationship with our neighbors in West Oakland.”  

The marine bulk terminal will span arouind 18 acres at Port of Oakland Berths 20-22 and an additional three acres of water at Berth 22 for vessel operations. The initial term of the approved lease is 12 years, set to expire June 30, 2035.  

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