Port director's report: America's Cup candidacy, pier repairs and new cruise itineraries

Executive Director Monique Moyo used the July 13 Port Commission meeting to outline several major items for the Port.

She announced that the BMW Oracle team had identified San Francisco as the United States candidate to host the America's Cup, with the team aiming to make a location selection by the end of 2010 and potential event years of 2013 or 2014. Moyo said the Port and city have been actively assisting the bid and that most Port property under consideration is the Port's larger facilities to the south; she noted the centuries-old deed of trust governing the Cup and the novel approach the bid would require.

On facilities, staff reported that inspection divers found more severe damage than anticipated at Pier 47 (Wharves J7 and J8). The Port has barricaded areas for public safety, is seeking required permits from the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), and has relocated five fishing vessels to Hyde Street Harbor so repairs can proceed as permitted.

Moyo also noted cruise-industry developments: Princess Cruises will pilot shorter west-coast itineraries in 2011, including four itineraries that will call in San Francisco, and the Port plans to accommodate those changes in operations and scheduling.

Other items in her report included a schedule change (the regular August 10 meeting moved to August 19), recognition of Port staff who contributed to the Port's climate action planning (with Rich Berman named as the individual awardee), and an announcement of the Raygun Gothic Rocketship public-art ribbon cutting at Pier 14 on Aug. 6.