The Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority has awarded two of the largest contracts in the organisation’s history, approving the staff’s recommendation to award Weeks Marine and Curtin Maritime Corporation contracts totaling US$430 million to complete the remaining Galveston Bay segments of the Houston Ship Channel expansion project.
The Port Commission has approved all the items on the agenda, totaling US$450 million in efforts to expand the canal.
Port Houston staff recommended Weeks Marine and Curtin Maritime Corporation based on the best value, including cost, schedule, environmental components, and Small, Minority and Woman-owned Business Enterprises (S/MWBE) inclusion, according to a statement.
“Nearly 32% of the contracts will go to S/MWBE companies, furthering our commitment to business equity, which is a priority for Port Houston,” said executive director Roger Guenther.
Houston Ship Channel Expansion Program – Project 11 Segment MapIt is also worth noting that almost 52% of the contract amounts are dedicated to the creation of marshes, bird islands and oyster reefs.
Project 11 is 82% funded, and efforts are ongoing, according to the port, to secure the remaining federal funds.
A study from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) shows that Project 11 could add more than US$133 million a year in national economic value.
In addition, last month, the Port Commission also awarded about US$30 million for ongoing investments in landside infrastructure and terminal operations.
