Broward County panel OKs Port Everglades expansion

Port Everglades yesterday received approval from the Broward County Board of Commissioners to proceed with a $437.5 million project that will add new berths for larger cargo ships and install rail infrastructure for new Super Post-Panamax cranes.

Known as the Southport Turning Notch Extension, the project will lengthen the deepwater turn-around area for cargo ships from 900 feet to 2,400 feet. The expansion will allow for up to five new cargo berths, according to a press release issued by the Broward County, Fla., port.

Additional dock space for cargo ships is needed, especially as Port Everglades aims to become Florida's leader for containerized cargo volumes, said port officials.

A joint venture consisting of Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. and Moss & Associates was named the managing general contractor for the project.

In addition, the gantry crane rails will be extended to the full length of the extended Turning Notch berth to utilize existing cranes.

The two-part expansion project marks the most expensive capital improvement agreement in Port Everglades' history.

"The Southport Turning Notch Extension was identified as a critical project in our 2006 Master/Vision Plan. We will now be able to meet the demands of our current customers and work with them to grow their businesses, in addition to providing the infrastructure necessary to attract new customers," said Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director Steven Cernak.

In June, the port will present to the Broward County Commission a separate plan to purchase three new Super Post-Panamax container gantry cranes, to be delivered in 2019.