Torrijos, Peters on hand for MIT dedication event

Torrijos, Peters on hand for MIT dedication event Manzanillo International Terminal in Panama held inauguration ceremonies Tuesday for its new administration building and the completion of a $100 million expansion project that includes an additional berth, container storage space, and new gantry cranes.
   The ceremonies recognizing the expansion was a major event in Colon, and Panamanian President Martin Torrijos and U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters were among industry and government officials in attendance.
   The new administration building has been in the works for some two years. It is located in an expansive building adjacent to the terminal that served as a high school during when the Panama Canal was still being administered by the United States. The building was completely gutted and remodeled by Seattle-based SSA Marine, which operates MIT.
   Work completed includes the addition of a 400-meter containership berth; a landing ramp and berth for roll-on/roll-off vessels up to 300 meters long; 17 acres of additional container storage space; six new gantry cranes, including three super post-Panamax cranes; and new container handling equipment for yard operations, including rubber-tired gantry cranes, yard hustlers, top picks and side picks.
   'We are very pleased to inaugurate this phase of our expansion program, thus fulfilling our port investment commitments, which will help MIT maintain its status as th