Transforming Howard Terminal: What’s Next for Oakland’s Waterfront?

With the ambitious plans for a billion-dollar stadium now shelved, Howard Terminal, a sprawling 50-acre space in Oakland, is poised for a new chapter. The Port of Oakland is shifting gears, seeking innovative proposals from developers to breathe new life into this prime waterfront property.

From Sports Dreams to Development Opportunities

The Port of Oakland, which acquired Howard Terminal back in 1978, has transitioned the site from its days as a bustling marine terminal, handling cargo and vehicles, to what it is today—a space primarily used for short-term storage of shipping containers. Now, with the Oakland Athletics' exclusive development agreement expired as of May 2023, the port is looking to the future.

What’s on the Table?

The Port is actively soliciting proposals that could include:

• Maritime Projects: Enhancing the port's shipping capabilities.
• Mixed-Use Developments: Combining business, entertainment, and industrial spaces.
• Community Impact: Focused on creating high-quality jobs accessible to local residents.

Insights from Port Officials

Jonathan Veach, the Chief Real Estate Officer of the Port of Oakland, emphasizes the need for creative and substantial ideas to revitalize Howard Terminal. He stated, “Whether maritime or mixed-use proposals, we’re looking for development opportunities that help the port maximize its land value, integrate with surrounding uses, and create high-quality jobs.”

What’s Next for Oakland’s Baseball Scene?

While the A’s are closing out their final season in Oakland, the community is still buzzing with excitement over a new local team—the Ballers—who play at Raimondi Park. The future of baseball in Oakland may be uncertain, but the potential for Howard Terminal remains ripe with opportunity.

The Vision for Howard Terminal

The Port of Oakland is not currently considering residential uses in its request for proposals. Instead, they are focusing on maximizing land value and facilitating economic growth that benefits the community. The goal is to create a vibrant space that aligns with the burgeoning entertainment options in the Jack London District.

Why This Matters

The developments at Howard Terminal have implications that go beyond the waterfront. They could influence:

• Local Economy: Job creation and business opportunities.
• Community Engagement: Involvement of local residents in the planning process.
• Environmental Impact: Sustainable development practices in urban settings.

Join the Conversation!

The future of Howard Terminal is a hot topic, and your thoughts matter! What direction do you think the Port of Oakland should take? Here are some questions to ponder:

What do you think?

• Should Howard Terminal prioritize maritime projects over mixed-use developments?
• What role should the community play in shaping the future of this waterfront space?
• Is there a risk of gentrification if residential units are introduced later on?
• How can the port ensure that new jobs created are accessible to the local community?
• Should Oakland focus on attracting more sports teams to the area, or is it time to diversify its entertainment options?

Your opinions could spark meaningful discussions on the future of Oakland’s waterfront. Share your thoughts in the comments below!