October 13, 2023 — The Pacific Northwest Waterway Association (PNWA) has elected Kayla Dunlap, Director of Government and Public Affairs at the Port of Grays Harbor, to the PNWA Executive Committee at their annual meeting in Vancouver, WA.  PNWA represents ports, businesses and public agencies to actively to support and advocate for navigation, energy, infrastructure, trade and economic development to ensure a strong and vibrant economy in the Pacific Northwest.

Ms. Dunlap spearheads the Port of Grays Harbor’s government affairs and communication efforts, ensuring local, state and federal officials and their staff understand the impacts policies and programs have on ports and rural communities.  Locally, Kayla is recognized throughout the community for her public outreach efforts including the industry recognized Fourth Grade Port Tours program.

Ms. Dunlap was selected as a member of the PNWA Executive Committee by her industry colleagues throughout the northwest.  She is recognized as a leader in State and Federal government relations particularly with the US Army Corps of Engineers.  In addition, she works closely with the federal delegation, Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA), American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) and the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to advocate for adequate funding for the construction and maintenance of our Country’s critical transportation infrastructure.

“It’s a true honor to serve on the PNWA’s Executive Committee,” stated Dunlap. “Ports of all sizes rely upon the PNWA  to provide the leadership and guidance with federal authorities to ensure the timely maintenance, repair, and construction of the multi-modal infrastructure that serves all Pacific Northwest communities.”

Dunlap replaces Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson as an At-Large member of the PNWA Executive Committee.  “Kayla’s knowledge of the port industry and experience at the State, regional and federal levels will be a great addition to the PNWA leadership team,” stated Gary Nelson.  “She is like a bulldog with a bone on issues affecting her community and communities throughout the Pacific Northwest.  She will serve the PNWA members well in her new position.”