San Diego Unified Port District

The San Diego Unified Port District manages the Port of San Diego, a vital public entity created in 1962 to oversee the management and development of San Diego Bay and adjoining waterfront areas. The Port encompasses lands that were previously controlled by several neighboring cities and now operates under a trust, with a mission to promote commerce, navigation, fisheries, and recreation for broad public benefit. It plays a key role in the regional economy by hosting shipyards, marinas, marine cargo and cruise terminals, as well as supporting tourism with numerous hotels, restaurants, museums, and recreational spaces. The District directly oversees two major marine cargo facilities: Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal, a multipurpose eight-berth terminal focused on break-bulk commodities, perishables, and industrial materials, and National City Marine Terminal, primarily serving as the West Coast entry point for imported vehicles. In addition to cargo operations, the Port maintains parks, fishing piers, free moorage, and boat launches, balancing its commercial activities with public access and environmental stewardship. The District is governed by a Board of Port Commissioners and is committed to transparent, accountable operations that serve the needs of diverse stakeholders.