Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor celebrated the grand opening of its first new dock in 20 years, a $6 million project aimed at enhancing the port’s ability to handle ocean vessels. The new dock, “Berth 5,” was partially funded by a U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) FASTLANE Grant and adds over 500 feet of dock space, allowing the port to serve ocean vessels, lake carriers, and river barges. This milestone marks a significant step in expanding bulk shipment capabilities at the Lake Michigan port.
Celebration and Workforce Recognition
The opening ceremony for the new dock was held on-site at Berth 5 and coincided with a Labor Appreciation Picnic, honoring members of the port’s workforce, including the International Longshoremen’s Association and the International Union of Operating Engineers. Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock highlighted the importance of this new dock, emphasizing the economic growth it will bring to the region and the vital role it will play in creating jobs for local workers.
Strategic Importance and Future Growth
The new dock is just one element of a larger $77 million investment currently underway at the port. Plans include doubling truck traffic capacity, increasing rail storage by 1,200 percent, adding two additional docks, and developing Indiana’s first sea cargo container terminal. According to Port Director Ryan McCoy, these improvements position the port as a key player in providing freight solutions for industries in Indiana, Michigan, and the greater Chicago area.
Capabilities and Environmental Impact
The new dock is designed to accommodate self-unloading bulk ships and efficiently transfer cargo to railcars, trucks, barges, and ground storage. It is expected to handle shipments of salt, fertilizer, limestone, taconite, foundry coke, grain products, and aggregates. Additionally, the project introduces a “green shipping” option by connecting ocean vessels with river barges, significantly reducing emissions. This all-water supply chain can transport the equivalent of 1,200 truckloads per ocean vessel and 1,000 truckloads per 15-barge river tow, making it an environmentally friendly alternative for cargo transport.
Conclusion
The opening of Berth 5 represents a major milestone for Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor and sets the stage for continued growth and development. With more infrastructure improvements on the horizon, the port is poised to become an even more critical hub for bulk cargo and global trade in the region.
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Source: Ports of Indiana
