The Port of San Diego contributes about $10 billion to the region each year. It also generates nearly 80,000 jobs locally. KPBS reporter Nicole Lozare has more.
The numbers are strong, according to an economic impact study commissioned by the Port of San Diego. Since 2002, it has grown 58 percent in direct revenue and 47 percent in the number of jobs it provides.
For example, one in eight cars imported into the United States enters through the Port of San Diego. The average cruise ship that calls San Diego home brings about $2 million every time she docks.
Port spokesman Jim Hutzelman says maritime cargo like cars shipping in and more cruise ships can be credited for the increase.
Hutzelman : The cruise line spends money on things like fuel, flowers, Coca-Cola, supplies here, and then the passengers come and go to Seaport Village and Horton Plaza and spend their money here. So that's the impact each cruise ship has.
The port anticipates double-digit growth in maritime cargo over the next few years.
Nicole Lozare, KPBS News.
