CAD$46.2m for Canadian port

The funding will enable the existing wharf to be expanded to 325m from its current 182m, an existing crane to be replaced with two 24m cranes, a new warehouse built for general cargo, a new maintenance and administration building and a truck gate. The port will also increase the terminal’s storage area and upgrade electrical, sewer, drainage, water and security systems around the facility.

“I don’t think we’ve ever seen this type of major financial investment in Nanaimo before,” said Donna Hais, chair of the Port of Nanaimo Board.

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An estimated 900 jobs will be created in the region during construction, besides the long-term employees who will be working at the expanded facilities.

The funding announcement by Marc Garneau, Canada’s Minister of Transport, came after months of work by the Port of Nanaimo team, which included terminal operator DP World.

Ms Hais stated that the investment will improve the ports ability to receive goods directly, while Port of Nanaimo CEO, Ian Marr, said the funding is an integral step towards the port’s goal of expanding its short-sea shipping and cargo operations.

Mr Marr added: “With our location and the high volumes of cargo moving into and out of Vancouver and Vancouver Island, we are ideally situated to become the primary point of entry and exit for trans-shipment of goods for Vancouver Island.”