Oliver was selected for his dedicated service to the maritime industry, including leadership on port and navigation issues that impact the economic health of Southwest Washington
VANCOUVER – The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) has recognized Port of Vancouver USA Commissioner Jerry Oliver with a Distinguished Service Award.
Oliver received the award on Oct. 9 at the PNWA Annual Convention in Vancouver. He was selected for his dedicated service to the maritime industry, including leadership on port and navigation issues that impact the economic health of Southwest Washington and the entire Pacific Northwest.
“Commissioner Oliver has been a strong advocate for the Columbia Snake River System, particularly the Columbia River Channel Deepening Project and the jetties at the Mouth of the Columbia River,” said PNWA Executive Director Kristin Meira. “We are proud to honor his 12 years of dedicated service to the Port of Vancouver and the region.”
Oliver was elected to the Board of Commissioners in 2007 and has helped usher in a period of tremendous growth and success at the port. He played a key role in the West Vancouver Freight Access (WVFA) project, a $250 million infrastructure initiative to expand the port’s rail system from 16 miles of track to nearly 50 miles. Additional capital investments under his leadership include the 108-acre Centennial Industrial Park, Terminal 1 waterfront development project and expansion of the port’s marine and industrial operations.
Each of these efforts have attracted or retained employers and supported jobs in multiple sectors, including manufacturing, construction, transportation and hospitality. Over Oliver’s tenure, the port’s annual economic impact in the region has grown from $1.6 billion to $3.8 billion, and jobs at the port and our facilities have increased from 2,300 to nearly 4,000.
Oliver announced earlier this year that he would not seek a third term on the Board of Commissioners. His current term expires December 31, 2019.
The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, visit www.portvanusa.com.
About Pacific Northwest Waterways Association
Pacific Northwest Waterways Association is a regional trade group that has supported the interests of ports, public utilities, farmers and shippers in the Pacific Northwest for 85 years. PNWA works to improve the economic and environmental sustainability of the region through collaboration with the U.S. Congress, federal agencies and regional leaders on policies related to environmental issues, transportation, energy and trade.
Information provided by Port of Vancouver USA.
