Port Freeport seeks proposal for container terminal

   Port Freeport in Texas has issued a request for proposal for development of an 85-acre container terminal alongside the port’s upper turning basin.
   “It is the port’s intent to enter into a long-term agreement (10-20+ years) with a carrier, terminal operator and/or carrier-terminal group, partners or others to develop and operate the new Port Freeport-Velasco Terminal,” said the request which was issued Aug. 31.
   Proposals are due Dec. 11, and the port plans to accept or reject proposals by Jan. 15, 2013.
   The chosen entity will enter into an agreement to develop the property. The port said while the desired use is for container terminal operations, “if an alternative use of the facility is proposed by the entity and accepted by the port, Velasco Terminal may become a multi-use facility.”
   The Velasco Terminal would have estimated capacity to handle 780,000 TEUs per year.
   The port has started construction on 800 feet of quay, but eventually the terminal would have a 2,400-feet berthing space, enough for three 650-foot-long containerships or two Panamax-class ships.
   The terminal would include a dedicated truck gate, on-dock rail and various port buildings
   Port Freeport said consulting firm Moffatt & Nichol is preparing a market assessment and trade development study for the terminal that will be delivered in November. – Chris Dupin