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Berth expansion will allow world’s largest Ro-Ro cargo vessels to call Washington port
The Port of Everett has been awarded a US$1.5 million grant from the state of Washington to help realise the second phase of development at its Ro-Ro cargo facility, which will allow the US port to accommodate the largest Ro/Ro vessels operating the seas.
The Ro-Ro capabilities of Everett are seen as critical in maintaining the port’s ability to meet the shipping needs of the region’s aerospace industry and nearby US Navy bases. The expansion of Everett’s Ro-Ro dock was highlighted as one of the key components of a strategy announced by Governor Jay Inslee which would ensure that Boeing’s upcoming 777X wide-body, twin-engine jet is assembled in the state of Washington.
“Our ability to support the aerospace logistics chain will be greatly enhanced with state funding for this project,” said Everett Port’s executive director, John Mohr.
Following the first phase of the project, which enhanced the existing dolphin berth to handle larger ships, the additional funding will enable the port to further strengthen the dock for loading and unloading cargo. The port will also rebuild the rail spur on the terminal with the help of a state rail bank loan.
The key seaport project was also identified as a priority in Snohomish County’s Regional Priorities, as well as the Governor’s Working Washington Plan.
