Public Invited to Portside Community Academy, Launches This Fall
Contact: bpage@portofsandiego.org, 619.348.1518, bpage@portofsandiego.org
Pilot Program Offers New Educational Opportunity for Residents
The Port of San Diego invites the public to sign up for the Portside Community Academy, a pilot program aimed at building deeper connections with portside communities by exploring innovations in the maritime industry that are helping improve human health and quality of life. The first cohort of the Academy is set to begin in October, offering residents a unique opportunity to engage with the Port’s sustainability efforts on and around San Diego Bay. This five-week program will cover various aspects of the Port's clean air and electrification projects, focusing on impacts on human health, quality of life, and technological advancements in the maritime industry.
“The Portside Community Academy is an invitation to our communities to learn about our strategy for a sustainable maritime industry that continues to provide thousands of good jobs while being mindful of those most affected, the people who live near these operations,” said Chairman Rafael Castellanos, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Our team will be sharing information and case studies on how our Port is delivering on its commitment to bring clean technology to the maritime industry and improve air quality in our portside communities.”
This pilot program marks the first time the Port has offered a structured educational program geared toward residents of portside communities, which encompass parts of Barrio Logan, Logan Heights, Sherman Heights and National City. The Portside Community Academy is a pioneering cross-departmental effort, representing the Port's dedication to becoming a “Port of Firsts.” It aligns with the Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS) and efforts to be an early adopter of zero-emissions technologies for ships, cranes, tugboats, and trucks, while also addressing the specific needs and concerns of portside communities, including community education.
With an emphasis on inclusivity, the Academy will accommodate up to two dozen participants per cohort. Interactive sessions will take place at various locations within and around the Port, providing a well-rounded educational experience. The Academy will be offered in both English and Spanish. The schedule is designed to accommodate working individuals. It will take place in four evening sessions and a daytime bay tour, with meals provided as part of each session. Participants will receive a certificate of completion.
At the conclusion of the first cohort of this pilot program, participants will be surveyed about their experience. Constructive feedback from participants will guide the development of future Academy sessions, ensuring continuous improvement.
For more information and to sign up on the interest list for the Portside Community Academy, please visit portofsandiego.org/academy.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO MARITIME
Port of San Diego Maritime is our gateway to the world—leading our working waterfront and facilitating the movement of goods and people, internationally and domestically.
Port Maritime businesses employ thousands of residents and generate billions of dollars per year for the regional economy, creating a prosperous global economic engine for all.