Whereas, Bringing new businesses and industries to Philadelphia is crucial to growing our local economy and expanding economic opportunity for all; and
Whereas, PhilaPort has been a leader in the expansion of new business opportunities in the region and through their partnership with International Longshoreman Association Local Union 1291, they have helped Philadelphia create new, family-supporting and sustaining jobs; and
Whereas, Norwegian Cruise Line has a demonstrated commitment as a community partner, expanding and growing their business in new markets and working with local and state partners to create long-term partnerships that create jobs and promote local tourism; and
Whereas, PhilaPort recently acquired a 15.5-acre site to develop a new cruise terminal for Norwegian Cruise Line. The seven-year commitment will re-establish Philadelphia as a cruising city; and
Whereas, Norwegian plans to base at least 41 ship visits per year out of the new port beginning in April 2026 and running through 2033. In 2024, Norwegian announced the 2,330-person Jewel and the 2,344 person Pearl will both set sail from Philadelphia and visit destinations including Bermuda, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, New England, and Canada; and
Whereas, It is projected that by 2028 this collaboration will build 2,000 new jobs and has the potential to add $40 million in city and local tax revenue; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, hereby
authorizes the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings on the economic impact of cruising in the City of Philadelphia.
End