The port of Beaumont in Texas has been awarded a USD5 million grant from the US Economic Development Administration for the construction of the first phase of the Main Street Terminal 1 project.

This will be the first step in rebuilding docks 2, 3 and 4, which were decommissioned in 2012, and will increase berthing capacity at the port of Beaumont by approximately 25 percent.

The project will include the construction of a bulkhead that will protect the shoreline from further erosion during severe weather. The bulkhead will also provide the foundation for the new dock structure.

“The construction of Main Street Terminal 1 will expand cargo handling capabilities at the port of Beaumont while also creating opportunities for economic growth,” said port director Chris Fisher.

The second phase of the project includes the demolition of the Wharf 4 area and the condemned Wharfs 2 and 3. They will be replaced with a 1,150 linear ft (350.5 m) wharf with rail access.

Upon completion of the first and second phases, the new facility will include a pile-supported dock apron structure approximately 75 ft x 1,150 ft (22.9 m x 350.5 m), rail access, and a 1,300 ft (396.2 m) long steel bulkhead.

According to the port, these improvements will result in a port that is less susceptible to damages typically incurred when severe weather events occur.

www.portofbeaumont.com