This year has created many economic challenges for industries across the globe due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like ports everywhere, we recently reported that our total cargo tonnage is down by 21 percent from a year ago. Not surprisingly, this is due to the decreased consumer demand, government mandates and canceled sailings.

While we are carefully monitoring these numbers, we are optimistic that the dip will be short-lived. Prior to the pandemic, we were on track for another record-breaking year – and cargo numbers are steadily rising again! A federal infrastructure bill and progress on a vaccine for COVID-19 could bring business back even faster. Thanks to our conservative budget, we are in good shape financially and we are not making any reductions to our operational levels. We will continue keeping a close eye on global conditions and making any needed adjustments. Our job is to ensure we navigate these changes as efficiently as possible to keep the Port strong and healthy.

In this month’s update, we will share how we are participating in National Preparedness Month, introduce you to our popular new fresh fish stand, and invite you to enjoy a fun new activity – drive-in movies at the Port!

From all of us at the Port of Redwood City, have a wonderful month!
Sincerely,
Kristine A. Zortman
Executive Director, Port of Redwood City 
Spotlight on Preparedness

Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month? At the Port of Redwood City, we are a “Ready Port,” having been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) as a Federal Staging Area. With our emergency wharf, which can accommodate an 8.9-magnitude earthquake, we would play a critical role in recovery efforts during a natural disaster.

As a regional center for preparedness, we host drills for first responders throughout the year. We stage real time field exercises to prepare for a range of emergencies, catastrophic events, vessel fires, or structural collapse. We are proud to be an important part of resilience planning for the communities of San Francisco Bay.
Taste the Freshness!

Pick up some delicious, fresh-off-the-boat halibut, seabass or rockfish at our newest tenant's walk-up option, the hugely popular Pioneer Seafoods! This is a family-owned fish market known for having the freshest seafood around and it will now be available at the Port of Redwood City on select days.

The Pennisi family has a long tradition of fishing and has been trawling in the waters off California since the early 1900s. Having relocated from Pier 47 in San Francisco, their new location at 409 Seafood Court at the Port of Redwood City waterfront features sustainably caught fish and a food truck where customers can enjoy mouth-watering fish and chips, fishermen’s stew, fish tacos and much more.

Be sure to check out their calendar for up to date information on when you can find them at the Port.
"Motor Movies" and Family Circus coming to the Port
Unfortunately, we had to make the difficult decision to cancel PortFest 2020, a free community celebration and waterfront festival held at the Port of Redwood City, due to COVID-19 public health advisories on large gatherings. While we are all disappointed about this year’s festival, we are excited to partner with the City of Redwood City on a new opportunity for the community to enjoy a night out while practicing social distancing. Join us for Motor Movies at the Port hosted by the City of Redwood City!

Movies will be shown on a large outdoor screen on Friday and Saturday evenings, from Sept. 11 through Sept. 26 at 459 Seaport Court, Redwood City, 94063. Your parking space to watch the movie is free. Just make a reservation, drive up and park your car! There will be two showings each evening, at 6 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. We hope to see you there!

We will also be hosting the Zoppé Italian Family Circus starting October 2, 2020. This will be a drive-in style circus where families are able to experience the circus like never before! To learn more about upcoming dates and reserve tickets, visit www.zoppe.net.