The port of Galveston in Texas, USA, is investing USD106 million to improve breakbulk cargo handling infrastructure, with key upgrades slated for this year.
Phased improvements began in 2024 with funding from a state grant and the port’s operating reserves.
At pier 38/39, work includes enclosing and filling an outdated slip. The port built a closure structure which will double as a berth beginning in 2026. The slip will be filled with dredge materials beginning in January and completed within the year. The fill will need to settle for a period before the area can be used for cargo laydown
Moreover, the pier’s berth will be extended to 1,434 ft (434 m) in length, connecting it with pier 40/41 and allowing for the accommodation of ships with draughts of up to 46 ft (14 m). The berth is expected to be commissioned in the second half of this year.
There will be another slip closure structure and berth extension project at pier 40/41, with the infrastructure of both due to be completed by mid-2026 and the slip to be filled in a future phase.
As well as 6 acres (2.43 ha) of resurfaced concrete at port 41 – which is now being used for cargo handling – the port demolished a decommissioned grain elevator to add more acreage for cargo handling, with the berth and some land now being used for cargo ships. According to the port, the area will be completely cleared for cargo use in 2026.
