Long Beach (USA): The port updates its masterplan with the community

Under the California Coastal Act of 1976, the Port of Long Beach is required to have a master plan. The last such plan, from 1990, required a major update to reflect changes to the maritime industry, technological advances, and issues of climate change and energy resources, particularly to achieve a Green Port status. The update started in 2018 and considered the ten amendments made to the 1990 master plan that the California Coastal Commission has approved over time, current major projects, and the actions taken for the Green Port objective. The initial drafted goals were: “Accommodate Forecasted Demand for Diverse Cargoes”, “Develop Modern Terminal Facilities with Efficient Operations”, “Integrate Green Port Policy and Land Use Planning”, and “Protect and Manage the Coast for the Benefit of All Port Users and Communities”. The lines concerning public access to the waterfront were also revised by re-examining the strategy for developing recreational amenities and spaces. The Port believes it is vital for the community to be actively involved in drawing up the new master plan.