Multifold dredging benefits

This is the conclusion of the Port of Long Beach Deep Draft Navigation Study. The multi-year federal study shows deepening and widening channels in the harbour would lead to air pollution reductions, improved vessel navigation and national economic benefits of almost US$21m annually.

This milestone opens the way for projects identified in the study to compete for federal funding.

Wide-reaching benefits

“The deepening and widening of these channels is of vital importance to the nation’s economy,” said Port of Long Beach executive director, Mario Cordero. “Keep in mind, we are the nation’s second-busiest port by container volume. Increasing the efficiency and speed that cargo is handled here has benefits to the whole supply chain reaching far beyond Southern California.”

Among other features, the study recommends deepening the Approach Channel from 76 feet to 80 feet, constructing an approach channel to Pier J South to a depth of 55 feet, deepening portions of the West Basin from 50 feet to 55 feet, and performing structural improvements to breakwaters at Pier J to allow for depths of 55 feet.

“This is an absolutely critical project for the port and for our supply chain system,” said Alan Lowenthal, United States Representative for California’s 47th congressional district, which includes the port.

“The expansion of the navigation channels at the port will allow larger vessels to maneuver safely in the port and berth in areas previously unavailable. More berthing space means more efficient and quicker loading and unloading of cargo, thus increasing the capacity and efficiency of supply chains overall. This project will not just help the port, not just our communities by reducing emissions, not just our environment – but businesses and communities at every point along the supply chain system.”