Panama Canal Authority requests bids for Pacific entrance dredging

Panama Canal Authority requests bids for Pacific entrance dredging The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has released its request for proposal for dredging of the canal's Pacific entrance as part of its $5.25 billion expansion plan to double capacity.
   The dredging project will enable longer, wider ships to reach the new locks and will include the excavation of about 9.1 million cubic meters (321 million cubic feet). Consequently, the 8.9 mile-long navigation channels will be widened by at least 218 meters, deepening them to a maximum level of 15.5 meters.
   'The Pacific entrance dredging is integral to expansion and the construction of the new lane,” said John Langman, ACP project administration division manager.
   “The Pacific side's geological characteristics make it more challenging than the Atlantic side. We will need a firm with the specialized equipment and experience to meet the demands of the project.'
   Bids for the Pacific entrance dredging are due Jan. 28, 2008.