L.A. starts environmental process on Yusen terminal upgrade

   The Los Angeles Harbor Commission this week voted to start the California environmental impact process on a proposed berth-improvement project by Yusen Terminals, Inc. (YTI) at the Port of Los Angeles.
   YTI, a subsidiary of the NYK Group, plans to deepen and improve its terminal facilities to accommodate next-generation vessels and increase cargo volume at its site. YTI currently operates under a 25-year-term lease at the port that is due to expire in September 2016, though the operator intends to exercise its option for a 10-year lease extension.
   The environmental impact statement/environmental impact report (EIS/EIR) process is expected to take about 18 months to complete.
   The project entails improving the wharves at Berths 214-216 and increasing berth depth from 45 to 53 feet; improving the wharves at Berths 217-220 to make way for 100-foot gauge gantry cranes, as well as deepening to 47 feet; and additional on-dock rail yard capacity for YTI.
   “Terminal modernization and improvements such as those proposed by Yusen Terminals Inc. are key to the Port of Los Angeles’ long-term global competitiveness and success,” said Port Executive Director Geraldine Knatz.
   The proposed project follows in the footsteps of the port’s $370 million Main Channel Deepening Project, done in conjunction with the Army Corps of Engineers. Because of these improvements, the port’s main channel and turning basins now provide a depth of 53 feet.
   “These berth and wharf improvements will allow us to take full advantage of the port’s main channel deepening, accommodate next-generation ships at our site and keep us competitive in the marketplace,” said Patrick Burgoyne, YTI president and chief executive officer. – Eric Johnson