Port of Corpus Christi receives $17 million for oil dock expansion
The Port of Corpus Christi has been given a federal grant of over $17 million from the US Department of Transportation – Maritime Administration to expand Oil Dock 3. This is part of a four-phase redevelopment of the Avery Point Terminal.
The $17.6 million grant will double barge berthing capacity at the dock to accommodate 90 per cent of barge traffic currently calling on the other three Avery Point docks. It said this will create enough surplus capacity at the other three docks to allow phased decommissioning and redevelopment of each without any disruption of operations.
Avery Point is one of the port’s most productive public oil terminals and currently operates at over 84 per cent capacity. It said this high utilisation prevents the decommissioning and redevelopment without the creation of new berth capacity nearby to accommodate existing (and growing) demand during the reconstruction.
Congressman Michael Cloud said: “The activity of cargo and barges passing through at the Port of Corpus Christi each day contributed to our region’s thriving economy. These funds will improve port infrastructure, providing increased assess for our local businesses and industries to their trade partners.”
The four ship docks that make up Avery Point are more than 55 years old and require major rehabilitation and/or reconstruction to safely and efficiently accommodate the modern vessel fleet, Port of Corpus Christi said in a statement.
The total cost of the project is estimated to be $22 million, with $17.6 million coming from the Port Infrastructure Development Grant and the remaining balance coming from the Port of Corpus Christi.
Charles Zahn, Jr, Port of Corpus Christi Commission chairman, added: “We applaud the Administration’s foresight in supporting coastal infrastructure investments. As the Port of Corpus Christi continues to crusade for federal funding for this much needed infrastructure, we are thankful that the Administration and our Texas delegation are committed to energy independence, balance of trade and national security.”
For more information visit portofcc.com
24th February 2020
