Port of Everett Designated Commercial Strategic Seaport for Military Support; One of Only 18 Seaports Nationwide
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The Port of Everett is pleased to announce in September it was notified by the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) of its formal designation as a Strategic Commercial Seaport by the Commander, Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC). The new title makes Everett one of only 18 Strategic Commercial Seaports nationwide — five of which are positioned along the West Coast.
Strategic Seaports support the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces in times of war, contingency, national emergency and disaster. With this designation, the Port must maintain readiness and be prepared to meet the military’s needs with short notice, while minimizing disruption to commercial services and commerce.
The Port already operates as a key support facility for neighboring Naval Station Everett, and regularly partners with the U.S. Army Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command’s 833rd Transportation Battalion, headquartered at Joint Base LewisMcChord.
“Everett is, and always has been, a military town,” Port Commissioner Tom Stiger said. “We are proud of the relationship we have with the Department of Defense. It’s a strong one that dates back to WWII, when our shipping terminals were taken over to support a shipbuilding operation for the Navy. Today, just like then, we are committed to supporting our national security.”
Recent Seaport investments, including the now complete $57 million South Terminal modernization and the coming $36 million Norton Terminal development, further enhance our support of military movements with additional berths, equipment and cargo laydown to support more commercial military shipments.
The Port’s efforts to recruit on-site commercial and military-approved shipyard Everett Ship Repair also supports this effort by ensuring the ability to service military assets right here in Port Gardner Bay, keeping our region efficient and competitive.
For more information, contact Catherine Soper, Port of Everett Communications & Marketing Director at catherines@portofeverett.com.
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About the Port of Everett
The Port of Everett is a special-purpose district tasked with economic development. Through operation of international shipping terminals, the largest public marina on the West Coast and real estate development ventures, the Port of Everett supports nearly 40,000 jobs in the region and contributes $433 million to state and local taxes. The Port strives to bring quality jobs, business, and tourism opportunities to its local and surrounding communities, and is committed to enhancing, restoring and preserving the overall environmental health of the waterfront. Learn more at www.portofeverett.com.