At the September 16 Commission meeting, the Port Commission awarded the Austin Point Dockside Infrastructure Study to KPFF and directed Executive Director Wray-Keene to enter into contract discussions with the firm. The Port advertised the RFQ in May, receiving four proposals. Two firms were invited to interview with the Port Commission at their August 19 meeting. The scope of work will include conceptual site evaluation for marine terminal development and due diligence investigations including phase 1 environmental, cultural resource, endangered species investigations, public access and recreation evaluation with other Port holdings, preliminary transportation impact analysis and mitigation impacts.

The Port currently has a contract with Ecological Land Services for the Austin Point wetland section south of the industrial area evaluating mitigation, public access and salmon habitat restoration efforts as required for development and agreements with state and federal agencies.