Hawaii’s Kapalama Container Terminal Moving Forward

A central part of Hawaii’s Harbor Modernization Program, the Kapalama Container Terminal project, is right on schedule, with the second phase set for completion in 2024, according to the state’s Department of Transportation.

Hawaii officials on Monday celebrated the finish of the first phase of the terminal project and broke ground on its second phase, all aimed at increasing Hawaii’s ability to handle cargo in the coming years.

“The need for expansion and investment in Honolulu Harbor has been recognized for decades,” said Governor David Ige. “Without vibrant, efficient harbors we would have a hard time enjoying life in Hawaii as we know it. I was a senator when the basic modernization plan was approved, and I’m proud that when fully completed in 2024, this approximately half billion-dollar project will increase cargo capacity by 40-percent and ensures our communities can be served in a more efficient way.”

Phase 1, which was done on time and on a budget of about $174 million, includes a 65.9-acre container yard, entry and exit gates, security fencing, gantry cranes, container handling equipment and a truck weigh station, according to the HDOT.

Phase 2, a $352.5 million endeavor, will feature an 18.5-acre container yard, 1863 linear feet more berthing capacity, dredged waterfront and harbor channel, wider Piers 40 and 41 to accommodate larger inter-island vessels, a reconstructed Pier 41, and Pier 40 upgrades to bolster roll-on/roll-off cargo operations.

“The land and waterside improvements to Honolulu Harbor realized in the two phases of the Kapalama Container Terminal project will benefit harbor users and our friends and neighbors for years to come,” said Director Jade Butay, Hawaii Department of Transportation. “The KCT pier, designed at 9.81-feet, addresses sea level rise where we anticipate water level heights of 3.6 feet by 2060. Phase 2’s pier design also anticipates less maintenance over the useful life of the pier structure compared to existing pier designs. These improvements have been built to last and we’re excited to continue this modernization.”

For more, go to http://www.kctinfo.com/.

By Pacific Maritime