By Karen Robes Meeks
Days before annual Western Hemisphere Ports Day, Port of Oakland dockworkers were honored by the port for their dedication to the movement of goods amid the COVID-19 health crisis.
“Ports including Oakland have been declared essential infrastructure and must keep operating for the public good and the future of trade,” said Port Maritime Director John Driscoll. “That couldn’t happen without the waterfront work force that keeps cargo moving. Dockworkers, truckers, all of those on the front line of the supply chain have earned our sincerest gratitude.”
While a shelter-in-place order is in effect in Alameda County, the port continues to operate to keep vital goods flowing, with some adjustments. For example, marine terminals have reduced operating hours to do preventative cleaning. Meanwhile, “vessel schedules have stabilized after shipping lines cut 20 voyages to Oakland between February and April,” the port said.
