Port Authority of Guam directors have authorized a multi-step bid process to replace the port’s aging gantry cranes.
The board announced its decision in the edition of the Port Authority of Guam newsletter that was released on Nov. 3. According to the report, the port’s current cranes, acquired second-hand in 2009 and over 40 years old, pose a risk to commercial and military logistics.
With the cranes nearing the end of their service life, the port’s capacity to manage cargo is effectively at stake, especially amid rising geopolitical tension, according to the report.
The gap analysis completed in October emphasized the importance of upgrading these cranes to meet increased throughput demands and support national security objectives.
The board’s action authorized Port General Manager Rory Respicio to issue an invitation for a bid structured to procure up to three new gantry cranes, contingent on funding. This, the report said, allows the flexibility to acquire up to three cranes initially that meet rigorous specifications, including cybersecurity measures and storm resilience, to withstand Guam’s extreme weather conditions.
“Current funds may only cover one crane but failing to pursue every option to acquire at least three, and ideally four, ship-to-shore gantry cranes would significantly impact the port’s operational resilience and strategic important, Respicio said.
“Our efforts to secure new cranes are integral to Guam’s role as a reliable logistics hub for commerce and the military—now more than ever amid geopolitical tension,” he added.
The report further stated that without additional federal support, the port may only be able to purchase a single crane.
Respicio said that if the bid process identifies a Chinese manufacturer as the most responsive, the port board would evaluate the bid in line with all statues, but that Defense Department funding would likely preclude the acquisition of China-manufactured cranes, maintaining alignment with U.S. security standards.