Oakland, CA – 11-03-05 – The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), the organization representing public ports throughout the Western Hemisphere, elected Port of Oakland Executive Director Jerry Bridges as the new 2005-2006 Vice Chair of the AAPA United States delegation. There are three elected officers for each of four delegations (Canada, Caribbean, Latin America, and US). The election took place during the AAPA 94th annual convention in Tampa, Florida the last week of October.

The AAPA promotes the common interests of the port community, and provides leadership on trade, transportation, environmental and other issues related to port development and operations. AAPA also works to educate the public, media, local, state and federal legislators about the essential role ports play within the global transportation system.

“This is indeed an honor to be elected to serve on the AAPA US delegation,” said Port of Oakland Executive Director Jerry Bridges. “I very much appreciate the opportunity my colleagues have given me to participate in a leadership role at the national and international levels of the organization.” As Executive Director of the Port of Oakland, Jerry Bridges directs a staff of approximately 600 in managing three key businesses – maritime, aviation and commercial real estate – totaling $250 million-plus in revenue and $2.5 billion in assets.

The American Association of Port Authorities was founded in 1912 and today represents 150 of the leading public port authorities in the United States, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, the Association represents 300 sustaining and associate members, firms and individuals with an interest in the seaports of the Western Hemisphere. AAPA port members are public entities mandated by law to serve public purposes. Port authorities facilitate waterborne commerce and contribute to local, regional and national economic growth.

The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport and 19 miles of waterfront. The Oakland seaport is the 4th busiest containerport in the U.S.; Oakland International Airport offers more than 200 daily non-stop flights to 42 domestic and international destinations; and the Port’s commercial real estate holdings include Jack London Square, Oakland's premier entertainment spot along the waterfront. The Port of Oakland was established in 1927 and is an independent department of the City of Oakland. For more information about the Port of Oakland, visit www.portofoakland.com.

Port of Oakland
Marilyn Sandifur
Media/Public Relations Specialist
(510) 627-1193
msandifur@portoakland.com