The Port of Oakland said construction could begin this summer on the ports new landmark logistics campus, a complex the port considers to be the linchpin of its future – a distribution hub driving additional containerized cargo across Oakland docks
According to the port, developer CenterPoint Properties said today that it awaits only permits to start on the Seaport Logistics Complex.
Port officials met with CenterPoint Board members last month to tour the 27-acre building site. Both sides have since expressed hope for a mid-year start to construction.
“We’re eager to get underway with this project," said CenterPoint Chief Development Officer, Michael Murphy. “We like the port’s vision and we see this partnership as the future of shipping and logistics.”
Industrial real estate giant CenterPoint is building a 440,000-square-foot facility at the port. It will be adjacent to the port’s new $100 million railyard. Marine terminals will be just across the street.
“In this business, fast access to transportation is essential,” Port of Oakland Executive Director, Chris Lytle, told the CenterPoint Board. “You’re so close you’ll be able to throw a rock to our marine terminals and railyard.”
Port Commissioners approved a long-term lease for CenterPoint last December. The deal followed two years of negotiations. It culminated years of planning by the Port to develop land once used as an Army supply depot.
CenterPoint’s project is the first phase of a planned Seaport Logistics Complex that could eventually encompass 180 acres. The vision for the complex: modern freight distribution centers in the heart of the port. Port officials said no other U.S. port has the land to duplicate Oakland’s marriage of transportation and logistics capabilities.
“We started discussions with CenterPoint back in 2015,” pointed out Port Maritime Director, John Driscoll. “It was a long road, but it has been a real pleasure and we couldn’t be more excited about the results.”
Lytle said the port expects cargo volume to grow about 2 percent annually for the next five years. The forecast factors in increased business from the Seaport Logistics Complex, he said.
CenterPoint has approved a revolutionary jobs agreement that gives Oakland residents first crack at employment. Board of Port Commissioners President, Joan Story, labeled it a national model for community hiring. “Your willingness to engage with the community is unique,” she told the CenterPoint Board.
