Port Commission authorizes RFP to find manager for new Pier 27 cruise terminal

The Port Commission on Sept. 11 authorized staff to issue a request for proposals to select a management entity for passenger operations, parking and special events at the new James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27.

John Dahl, of the Port’s Planning and Development Division, told the commission that Phase 1 construction of Pier 27 is scheduled for completion in March 2013, with Phase 2 and designation as the Port’s primary cruise terminal expected by mid‑2014. Port staff said the facility will be used for cruise operations when ships are present and as an events venue at other times.

Staff recommended the RFP include evaluation criteria for prior cruise‑terminal management experience, special‑events management, parking operations and financial capacity. The Port indicated it expects to issue the RFP later in the month, receive proposals in roughly 10 weeks and aim to bring a negotiated management agreement back to the commission in early 2013.

Maritime staff told the commission the initial contract term would likely be about 10 years, with compensation typically structured as an annual fixed fee plus a percentage of gross receipts for events and parking. Staff also said it has met with organized labor (including ILWU locals 10, 75, 34 and 91) and plans continued outreach during the procurement.

During public comment, Patrick Kim, secretary‑treasurer of ILWU Local 75, said his union had concerns about the use of nonunion security at Pier 27 in the past and asked that assurances be written into the RFP; staff confirmed a letter from Maritime Director Peter Daley committing to incorporate the union’s recommendations into the solicitation.

The commission moved and voted to authorize the RFP; the action was recorded as Resolution No. 12 66.