Posted on January 15, 2025
Port to establish a regional “Teal New Deal” emphasizing sustainable economic opportunity
Port of Seattle Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa today officially assumed the role of Commission President for 2025. Under Commission President Hasegawa’s leadership, the Port is strategically investing in infrastructure and programming to support a strong blue and green economy — a “Teal New Deal” that positions Seattle as the port for the future.
“The Port of Seattle can and should lead the global transformation of the maritime industry to create economic opportunity that is a sustainable driver of our regional economy for the next century,” said Hasegawa. “Imagine a future where our industrial lands around the SODO neighborhood are a global example of how investments in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and logistics can create economic opportunities and job opportunities for a diverse workforce. That’s the vision of a Teal New Deal that we are focused on as we create a port for the future, not only for our region but to connect us around the world.”
During the Commission’s January 14 meeting, Toshiko Hasegawa accepted the commission gavel from Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed, who served as president in 2024. Hasegawa becomes the first Asian American woman to lead the Commission.
Commissioner Ryan Calkins was selected by the Commission to serve as vice president, and Commissioner Sam Cho was selected as secretary.
To support the creation of a global port for the future, the Commission will build on a strong 2024. Last year the Port continued to invest in its five-year program of capital projects at Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) Airport and at its maritime facilities, budgeted at almost $5 billion total. A milestone moment was realized when two new shore power connections were completed. Work also began on the Maritime Innovation Center (MInC) at Fishermen’s Terminal and major Upgrade SEA projects at the airport.
The Commission continued its policy work to support decarbonization of port-related industries and improve habitat; drive economic equity through workforce development; and launch pilot programs to support access to transit options, childcare, and health care for workers at SEA Airport. While celebrating its 75th anniversary, the airport welcomed eight new international services in 2024. Five more are scheduled for 2025. The Port of Seattle’s work supports 46,800 maritime-related jobs and a total of 198,200 jobs linked to its overall economic activity.
The Commission and Executive Director Stephen P. Metruck will share the Port’s 2025 plans at its February 6 State of the Port event.
About the Port of Seattle
Founded in 1911 by a vote of the people as a special purpose government, the Port of Seattle’s mission is to promote economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.
The Port owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Fishermen’s Terminal — home of the North Pacific fishing fleet — and public marinas. The Port also owns two cruise ship terminals, a grain terminal, real estate assets, and marine cargo terminals through its partnership in the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
Port operations help support nearly 200,000 jobs and $7 billion in wages throughout the region. Over the next 13 years, the Port’s Century Agenda seeks to create an additional 100,000 jobs through economic growth while becoming the nation’s leading green and energy-efficient port.
Contact
Chris Guizlo | Port of Seattle Media Officer
guizlo.c@portseattle.org
