This is the final phase of a $30 million investment as part of the port’s master plan for future development. The phase includes completing the dockextension to 204 feet wide and 680 feet long and the installation of two giant Manitowac electric cranes. Also, the port will start construction of a100,000-square foot landside transit shed in early 2001.

Incoming cargo will be transferred by the cranes, which are rated at 150 tons each. The cranes have a 140-foot boom and a 100-foot radius, and theyare mounted on gantry rails which run the length of the dock.

The electric motors on the cranes will allow for much quieter operation than conventional diesel cranes.

These heavy ship unloaders will be able to more quickly, quietly and efficiently unload cargo and speed up turnaround time for vessels which call at the facility.

Earlier upgrades included the addition of new upriver and downriver mooring dolphins, access ramp and truck-turning improvements and a 190,000- square foot laydown pad for storage inside the security fence.

Executive Director Joseph Accardo Jr. added, “These state-of-the-artimprovements at the Globalplex Intermodal Terminal will allow the Port of South Louisiana to enhance its position as a viable deep-draft port general cargo alternative, while helping to maintain its status as America’s largest tonnage port.”Partial funding for the upgrades came from the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Trust Fund.

Back to Top

Back to Business Headlines

Copyright © 1999, Wick Communications, Inc.

Best viewed with 4.0 or higher