Energy was front and center as EDB staff and 23 investors came together Sept. 24 for the latest installment of the EDB Investor Briefing Program.

With the sun shining on Commencement Bay and Mount Rainier in full view, the group visited SeaPort Sound Terminal to discuss the critical role that Tacoma-Pierce County plays in energy infrastructure and energy supply for the local, regional and global economy. The petroleum products storage and transfer facility is one of the largest renewable fuel terminals in the state. SeaPort has also been at the forefront of efforts to bring biodiesel, renewable diesel and low-sulfur marine fuels to this market.

Supporting energy needs – today and tomorrow

During a presentation and plant tour, EDB Vice Chair and SeaPort Sound Terminal Vice President of Commercial Bett Lucas shared how SeaPort supports local Port of Tacoma container ships, the cruise industry, construction, military, government, fishing and more. Complex infrastructure is required to accommodate the ever-growing variety of new energy products, Lucas said.

“These terminals need to have rail, pipeline, marine and truck capability to access many of these products that are not manufactured in Washington state. The ability to blend, heat and handle complex fuels is also required,” she said. “Seaport and Tacoma are well positioned to support both the fuels of today and the fuels of tomorrow.”

A unique experience

The EDB offers the Investor Briefing Program to help investors understand the effect of their contributions on the growth and diversification of the regional economy. Since its post-pandemic relaunch in September 2023, the program has also hosted events at the Tacoma Tideflats and Tehaleh in Bonney Lake.

“Investor Briefings offer a unique ‘under the hood’ experience,” Lucas said. “During these briefings, investors come together to learn, network and experience various member businesses through tours and on-site visits.”

EDB private and public investors who attended the September event represent a range of Pierce County entities, including City of Lakewood, City of Sumner, City of Tacoma, Clover Park Technical College, Heritage Bank, Impact Washington, Korsmo Construction, National Community Development Services, Panattoni, Pierce College, Pierce County, Pierce Transit, Port of Tacoma, SeaPort Sound Terminal, Sound Credit Union, Tacoma Public Utilities, University of Washington Tacoma and Workforce Central.

The EDB’s next Investor Briefing is in the works. Stay tuned for more details.