Construction crews have been busy at Associated Terminals’ Chalmette Slip working on two projects that will improve the operational efficiency and capacity at this facility in the Port of St. Bernard.

Construction was recently completed on a new 40,000 square foot general cargo warehouse.  Located next to the Chalmette Slip, the new warehouse runs parallel to existing rail lines and will provide enhanced cargo storage capacity and faster shipping times for cargoes at the busy terminal. The new building has 5 truck loading bays as well as 5 extra wide doors for rail car loading and unloading.

Cy Hill, Vice President of St Bernard Operations, stated, “The completion of this storage warehouse has been greatly anticipated and is a significant enhancement to the services we provide for our customers at this facility.”

In addition to the new warehouse, dock reconstruction at the Slip is making significant progress.

Once the high waters of the Mississippi River receded to a level allowing for work to begin, contractors quickly brought crews on board, and work has progressed smoothly. Three sections of the apron have been completed as of September, and the entire reconstruction project is expected to be completed in late November 2009. The new dock surface will allow Associated Terminals to accommodate heavier weights of up to 1,000 lbs. per square foot, and the new dock fenders will allow for easier berthing of vessels.

The Chalmette Slip, a 1,700 foot long slack water harbor, allows vessels to operate in still water while providing deep draft berthing and immediate access to the Mississippi River. Cy Hill said, “St. Bernard is an ideal location for project cargoes. The Chalmette Slip is one of the furthest downriver locations on the Mississippi River with the capability for handling project cargoes, and has the added advantage of being out of the Mississippi River current.”