Latest news with #PortHouston


Business Wire
01-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
June 2025 Meeting: Port Houston Celebrates Funding of Project 11
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority met for its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 24. Chairman Ric Campo opened the meeting applauding the recent announcement of the Houston Ship Channel Expansion - Project 11 being funded to completion with a $161 million federal investment in the President's FY26 Budget. Chairman Campo recognized the bipartisan collaboration and hard work of the many stakeholders in reaching this crucial milestone. The President's Budget also included $53 million for operations and maintenance dredging for the ship channel to keep draft restrictions from impeding vessel traffic. Campo also acknowledged that Port Houston continues to monitor the ongoing tariff situation, noting there have not been major impacts to volumes at the public terminals. Port Houston reported strong volumes in June, which can be found in more detail via the press release issued on June 23. There was discussion about the Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) program. Port Houston manages FTZ 84, the largest and one of the most active zones in the country. The Port Houston team has seen a noticeable increase in FTZ inquiries in response to the current tariff climate. Port Houston is working closely with zone users and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to support the recent influx of interest. State Senator Carol Alvarado and State Representative Mary Ann Perez were recognized for their continued leadership and advocacy on behalf of Texas ports during the 89 th legislative session. Both lawmakers served as sponsors of the Texas Ports Association's omnibus bill, although it was not passed during this session due to time constraints. Port Houston CEO Charlie Jenkins shared that planning discussions are underway with the City of Houston regarding Fleet Week Houston taking place November 5-12, 2025. He recently met with Mayor John Whitmire to coordinate this major event, which will be a significant moment for both the City of Houston and the maritime industry. Following the meeting, the Community Relations Committee of the Port Commission approved the 2025 Community Grant recipients, awarding $500,000 to 24 organizations across the greater Houston port region. The announcement represents the largest group of recipients and highest total funding awarded in the program's history. Project 11 Updates & Operations Highlights It was also announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is expected to clear the Barbours Cut Flare draft restriction with a Great Lakes rental hopper dredge from New Orleans. The dredge is scheduled to arrive around July 15, with approximately 30 days of digging to clear restrictions. The two remaining Port Houston-led Project 11 dredging contracts with Weeks Marine and Callan Marine continue to progress on budget. This Channel segment, located between Bayport and Barbours Cut, is expected to be completed and opened to two-way vessel traffic by Q3 2025. Additional Meeting Updates & Announcements The Port Commissioners approved an $18 million award for the construction of the new Port Coordination Center (PCC), which will house Port Houston's Port Security & Emergency Operations Division & Turning Basin Operations teams. The PCC will break ground in July and is scheduled to be a 13-month construction project. Also, Port Commissioners approved a two-year interlocal agreement with San Jacinto College for the fire department. San Jacinto College offers state-of-the-art maritime simulation tools that replicate real-world port conditions and hazards. This agreement allows the Port to train multiple crews efficiently, cost-effectively and locally. The Port Commission meets next on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area's largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation's largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at


Business Wire
25-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Port Houston Commission Approves Record Number of Community Grants
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Tuesday, June 24, the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority Community Relations Committee approved $500,000 in community grants to 24 local organizations – marking the largest group of recipients and highest total amount awarded in the program's history. Each organization was selected for its meaningful contributions to the well-being and advancement of local communities across the greater Houston port region. 'The scale and impact of this year's program reflects Port Houston's deep commitment to building a stronger, more resilient region,' said Port Commissioner Wendy Montoya Cloonan, who also serves as Chair of the Community Relations Committee. Share 'I am a firm believer in and supporter of the program and appreciate that we have this venue to listen to community partners and to support their efforts to improve quality of life in our neighborhoods,' said Port Commissioner Wendy Montoya Cloonan, who also serves as Chair of the Community Relations Committee. 'The scale and impact of this year's program reflects Port Houston's deep commitment to building a stronger, more resilient region.' Since its inception in 2020, Port Houston has awarded over $2.1 million and supported 95 programs through its Community Grants Program. In 2025, the program received a record number of applications, with 136 organizations requesting more than $4.2 million in funding. The Community Grants Program is one of the many ways Port Houston gives back to the community, aligning with its strategic priorities of jobs and maritime economic growth. By investing in programs that directly benefit residents, Port Houston is further sustaining the region's growth and supporting economic development through intentional giving. Visit the port's website to learn more about its commitment to giving back and emphasis on responsible, impactful stewardship. About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area's largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation's largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 Funded to Completion
Allocation in President's FY26 Budget HOUSTON, June 18, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Port Houston is pleased the President's fiscal year (FY) 2026 budget has allocated $161 million for the Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11. In addition, the President's FY26 Operation & Maintenance (O&M) budget allocated $53.6 million to the Houston Ship Channel, the nation's No. 1 ranked waterway. These funds are in addition to the $33 million for Project 11 construction and $98 million for O&M in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Workplan for FY25 that was released a few weeks ago. Port Houston Chairman Ric Campo extended congratulations and appreciation to all industry partners, stakeholders, Congressman Wesley Hunt, and the bipartisan delegation involved in this tremendous effort undertaken over the past several years. "This is a momentous achievement," said Chairman Campo. "We appreciate the Trump Administration for recognizing the criticality of this expansion and applaud Congressman Wesley Hunt and Congressman Brian Babin for their tremendous advocacy and unwavering leadership to bring home the millions of federal dollars needed to complete Project 11. This project will keep our economy moving forward and enable our port to continue delivering for not just Houstonians but the entire nation." "Since my swearing-in nearly three years ago, one of my biggest priorities has been to ensure that Project 11 in the Houston Ship Channel is fully funded and its construction completed. As the largest energy port in the entire world, Project 11's success is essential to maintaining Texas's and the United States' energy dominance," said Congressman Hunt. "I would also like to express my sincerest gratitude to President Trump for recognizing the importance of this project and his goal of ensuring America is once again a net exporter of energy." Project 11 Construction Progress Several portions of the channel expansion project are complete and already providing benefits. Daylight restrictions have been reduced by up to two hours in each direction, increasing time for two-way vessel traffic along the waterway and improving efficiency. Later this summer Port Houston will complete the remaining Port-led portion of Project 11 dredging, between Bayport Ship Channel and Barbours Cut Ship Channel, with USACE leading the remaining portions of Project 11 in Barbours Cut and the upper Turning Basin. Project 11 is scheduled to be complete by 2029. Project 11 is a testament to Port Houston's advocacy for the Houston Ship Channel and the region. It will provide a safer waterway for larger ships and vessels, further supporting economic development and jobs for the region and the state of Texas. See more details and updates about Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 here: About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area's largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation's largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at View source version on Contacts CONTACT: Lisa Ashley-Daniels, Director, Public Relations, Office: 713-670-2644; Mobile: 832-247-8179; E-mail: lashley@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data


Business Wire
18-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 Funded to Completion
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Port Houston is pleased the President's fiscal year (FY) 2026 budget has allocated $161 million for the Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11. In addition, the President's FY26 Operation & Maintenance (O&M) budget allocated $53.6 million to the Houston Ship Channel, the nation's No. 1 ranked waterway. These funds are in addition to the $33 million for Project 11 construction and $98 million for O&M in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Workplan for FY25 that was released a few weeks ago. Port Houston is pleased that the President's fiscal year (FY) 2026 budget has allocated $161 million for the Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11. Share Port Houston Chairman Ric Campo extended congratulations and appreciation to all industry partners, stakeholders, Congressman Wesley Hunt, and the bipartisan delegation involved in this tremendous effort undertaken over the past several years. "This is a momentous achievement," said Chairman Campo. "We appreciate the Trump Administration for recognizing the criticality of this expansion and applaud Congressman Wesley Hunt and Congressman Brian Babin for their tremendous advocacy and unwavering leadership to bring home the millions of federal dollars needed to complete Project 11. This project will keep our economy moving forward and enable our port to continue delivering for not just Houstonians but the entire nation." "Since my swearing-in nearly three years ago, one of my biggest priorities has been to ensure that Project 11 in the Houston Ship Channel is fully funded and its construction completed. As the largest energy port in the entire world, Project 11's success is essential to maintaining Texas's and the United States' energy dominance," said Congressman Hunt. 'I would also like to express my sincerest gratitude to President Trump for recognizing the importance of this project and his goal of ensuring America is once again a net exporter of energy." Project 11 Construction Progress Several portions of the channel expansion project are complete and already providing benefits. Daylight restrictions have been reduced by up to two hours in each direction, increasing time for two-way vessel traffic along the waterway and improving efficiency. Later this summer Port Houston will complete the remaining Port-led portion of Project 11 dredging, between Bayport Ship Channel and Barbours Cut Ship Channel, with USACE leading the remaining portions of Project 11 in Barbours Cut and the upper Turning Basin. Project 11 is scheduled to be complete by 2029. Project 11 is a testament to Port Houston's advocacy for the Houston Ship Channel and the region. It will provide a safer waterway for larger ships and vessels, further supporting economic development and jobs for the region and the state of Texas. See more details and updates about Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 here: For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area's largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation's largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at


Business Wire
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
May 2025 Meeting: Port Houston Announces $131 Million in USACE Workplan Designated for Houston Ship Channel Construction and Maintenance
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Tuesday, May 20, the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority met for its regular monthly meeting. Chairman Ric Campo opened the meeting with an update that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) released their FY25 workplan, which includes $33 million allocated to the Houston Ship Channel Expansion, known as Project 11, construction and $98 million to operations and maintenance to keep the Houston Ship Channel dredged. 'Thank you to everyone who pulled together to get this done, including our industry partners, customers, congressional delegation, and specifically Congressman Wesley Hunt and Congressman Brian Babin who worked around the clock to make sure we got what we needed,' said Chairman Campo. Port Houston reported strong volumes in April, which can be found in more detail via the press release issued on May 19. Operations reported nine blank sailings forecasted over the next six weeks at the container terminals. Despite this, Port Houston remains cautiously optimistic, noting that the number is significantly lower than during previous periods of market uncertainty, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It was also announced that the USACE approved the federal Assumption of Maintenance (AOM) for Segment 1B of the Houston Ship Channel (Redfish Reef to Bayport Terminal), in addition to Segment 1C (Bayport to Barbours Cut Ship Channel), which was approved in 2022. This marks the successful conclusion of a nearly five-year group effort and with these approvals Port Houston will save a net present value of nearly $380 million over the next 50 years. The organization is on track to complete the dredging activities in Segment 1C by late Q2/early Q3 2025, completing the Port Houston-led portions of Project 11 dredging. Completion of Galveston Bay beneficial use features is scheduled for Q4 2025. As it relates to maintenance at the public terminals, Port Houston commissioned 20 clean diesel yard tractors at Barbours Cut Terminal and Bayport Terminal, removing 20 outdated, less efficient tractors from service. The organization is also actively collaborating with TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation), Houston Pilots and PSEO (Port Security and Emergency Operations) to temporarily improve air draft markings on the Interstate 610 bridge. Additional Meeting Updates & Announcements Port Houston CEO Charlie Jenkins highlighted the Maritime Museum's upcoming grand opening at their new location next to Port Houston's Administrative Building at East River. Port Houston will be a sponsor for the new space. Chairman Campo also congratulated the 2025 maritime program graduates, noting that Port Houston's maritime education program and ongoing partnerships with industry and area schools and universities further bolsters the port's talent pipeline and contributes to the future maritime workforce. The Port Commission meets next on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. About Port Houston For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area's largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation's largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at