With growing complexity in supply chain management, a realignment of infrastructure supporting global trade routes is underway at the Port of Pensacola. The port is seeking $53 million in Triumph Gulf Coast grant funding to complete the first phase of its three-phase Supply Chain Enhancement Project. This project consists of engineering and construction elements intended to maximize the use of 75 percent of the port while achieving goals set forth by the portside Vision Plan for the remaining 25 percent.
Element One focuses on Maritime Operations Modernization and accelerates on-port infrastructure advancements in support of freight investment and waterway improvements to help better align roadways, rail, and infrastructure with market-driven opportunities. These improvements create efficiencies that increase stability in supply chains, leading to faster transit times, allowing for volume increases and new opportunities for the port and its tenants in the Marine Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MMRO) space, as well as new growth in ocean sciences research and development, boat building, and competitive sailing sectors.
Element Two focuses on the Maritime Center of Excellence and Light Manufacturing Complex. It supports the buildout of approximately 10 acres of the northeast quadrant and brings online more than 210,000 square feet of covered operational and dry storage space supporting existing and new tenants. This includes boat building, ocean sciences, maritime technologies research and development, marine industry training, flexible maker’s space (light manufacturing, fabrication or assembly), a small boat testing facility, and two acres of improved laydown area for large wind energy project cargo.
Element Three focuses on infrastructure improvements to support elements one and two. As tenant cargo, particularly wind special project cargo, gets larger and heavier; changes are needed to accommodate efficient truck and rail moves. Burying utilities in support of larger cargo handling and movement—especially for the northern part of the port via Heavy Load Roadway Project—as well as constructing internal service roads and additional rail infrastructure will further modernize port operations.
Supported by tenant partners, the Port of Pensacola’s supply chain enhancement project collaboratively improves on-port ocean transportation efficiency. It supports creating more effective logistics patterns, resolves outdated infrastructure issues, attracts investment bringing 210,000 square feet of active warehousing and light manufacturing maker space online ultimately increasing tonnage and job growth in Northwest Florida.