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PHA reports rise in overall tonnage, and strong financial position
The Port of Houston Authority’s Port Commission has awarded a US$1.3 million contract to Grant MacKay Company, Inc. for the demolition of a number of buildings at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal.
Grant MacKay will be responsible for pulling down and removing of existing concrete and steel structures, including asbestos abatement, security lighting, fencing and camera relocation, as part of the continued redevelopment of the terminal facility.
Furthermore, the commission has also approved advertising for and receiving bids, proposals or professional qualifications for improvements to the Bayport and Barbours Cut channel and berthing area to ensure works remain on schedule for its 2014 completion. The plans call for the deepening of the channels and berths at the Bayport and Barbours Cut container facilities to 45 feet. This will match the depth of the Houston Ship Channel and enable the call of larger vessel that will transit the Panama Canal upon the completion of its multi-billion dollar expansion.
Port of Houston Authority executive director Len Waterworth has also reported that the port’s overall tonnage and finances remain in good shape. Total tonnage in September was up by three million tonnes, or one percent, year-over-year. Year to date, operating revenue is up four percent to $174 million following strong container growth, which helped to offset a decline in the port’s steel handling business.