Port of Hueneme outlines expansion plans amid decline in vehicle cargo

The Port of Hueneme in California has outlined its latest infrastructure investments and commercial priorities as declining automobile volumes prompt the port to diversify its cargo activities and develop new export opportunities.

During its 2026 State of the Port presentation, held in partnership with the West Ventura County Business Alliance, port officials reported a 13% decline in automobile volumes during the latest fiscal year, partly reflecting the impact of tariffs on international vehicle trade.

The decline was offset in part by increased high-and-heavy cargo volumes and a modest rise in container imports. The port also reported substantial growth over the longer term, with operating revenue increasing 77% between 2015 and 2026 and overall growth of 70% during the past decade.

The Port of Hueneme remains an important US gateway for vehicle imports and refrigerated agricultural products, ranking fourth nationally for automobile cargo, according to the port authority.

Infrastructure investment and cargo diversification

The port currently has approximately US$246 million in active grant-funded projects focused on infrastructure, cargo-handling capacity, operational efficiency and environmental improvements.

Christina Birdsey, Chief Operations Officer, outlined the ongoing investment programme and the port’s objective of achieving zero-emission operations by 2030.

Among the recently completed improvements is a solar canopy that has been energised and is expected to generate enough electricity annually to meet the equivalent demand of approximately 250 homes.

The port also highlighted the contribution of federal funding to its development. According to the Oxnard Harbor District, outgoing US Congresswoman Julia Brownley has helped secure more than US$155 million in federal support for port-related projects since taking office in 2013.

These funds have supported infrastructure modernisation, security improvements, environmental initiatives and economic development activities.

New agricultural export opportunities

The port is developing an export initiative intended to connect agricultural producers in Ventura County with Asian markets by using available container capacity.

The proposal forms part of a broader effort to diversify cargo flows and make better use of existing maritime infrastructure, particularly as tariff-related uncertainty affects vehicle shipments.

Stacy Lange, Chief Commercial & Public Affairs Officer, said increased high-and-heavy shipments and container imports had helped support the port’s commercial performance despite the decline in automobile cargo.

The agricultural export initiative remains under development, with the port not yet announcing a launch date, carrier arrangements or projected shipment volumes.

Economic contribution and workforce development

Port officials also highlighted the facility’s economic contribution to Ventura County, estimating that it accounts for nearly 5% of the county’s gross domestic product.

The port’s infrastructure programme has supported 896 jobs through its Project Labor Agreement, while its US$2 million S.P.E.E.D. initiative continues to provide workforce development opportunities in maritime operations, logistics and construction.

Kristin Decas, CEO and Port Director, said the port’s development depended on cooperation among businesses, labour organisations, government representatives and customers.

Looking ahead, the port plans to continue modernising its facilities, developing new commercial opportunities and pursuing its environmental objectives as it approaches its 90th anniversary in 2027.