400 Dockworkers to be Added to Combat Congestion at Port of Oakland

400 Dockworkers to be Added to Combat Congestion at Port of Oakland

Although the PMA & ILWU have ratified the West Coast contract, congestion at the Port of Oakland continues to have a significant impact on port operations and turn times. The PMA and ILWU continue to trade barbs regarding the cause of the congestion.

According to the Journal of Commerce, the PMA contends that not enough skilled longshoremen are showing up for the amount of work, causing vessel backlogs and longer truck turn times. The ILWU says the worker shortage is a result of the PMA’s delay in promoting enough part-time workers to full-time status.

According to the American Journal for Transportation, the PMA and ILWU have agreed to add and train new workers as well as train and promote 100 current workers. “Additional hires will be phased into the workforce through September to clear out a backlog of vessels anchored in San Francisco Bay.” Overall the Port of Oakland plans to add 400 workers in total.

More information:

Journal of Commerce: PMA, ILWU trade blame for Oakland delays

American Journal of Transportation: An added 400 dockworkers to handle Port of Oakland cargo