Long Beach’s new Middle Harbour opening soon

It will begin processing empty containers at Pier E, in the first stage of operations at what the port argues is the ‘world’s greenest, most technologically advanced marine container terminal.’

The March opening of the project, known as Middle Harbour, is the start of a two-month progression; by May it is hoped that the terminal will be fully operational.

“LBCT is committed to ushering in this new era the right way,” commented Anthony Otto, LBCT president.

He continued: “This includes our investment in all zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment and comprehensive training.”

The project is off the back of more than a decade of planning and investment by LBCT, Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) and the Port of Long Beach to transform two aging marine container terminals into green terminals.

OOCL’s US$4.6bn lease is the largest of its kind for any US seaport and was signed in 2012.

The terminal will also be entirely paperless to add to its environmental stance. Equipment Interchange Receipts (EIRs) will only be available on the LBCT’s Trucker Portal.

All truck transactions at Pier E will be b appointment only and trucking companies are encouraged to pre-register, create log-ins and begin booking appointments.

Alongside electronic message boards to guide traffic on more user and economically friendly routes, the Port staff will monitor the new routes to determine if adjustments are needed to add to lower emissions on the roads around the port.

Mr Otto concluded: “We’ve been working closely to ensure traffic flow is properly handled and there will be minimal impact on gate access to our new terminal.”

Port transportation planners and engineers will continue to develop the most efficient and robust workings for the terminal. Middle Harbour is scheduled for full completion in 2019.