This strategic initiative will deliver the same innovative semi-automation to NIT-North  as our other container terminals, increasing throughput and reliability, while at the same time densifying stacks to increase overall capacity.  In addition, the project will transform the all-diesel straddle carrier operation to all-electric by adding 18 semi-automated stacks, supporting our Net Carbon Zero goal by 2040 commitment.

Customer Benefits:

• Efficient cargo throughput, driving supply chain reliability
• Quick and predictable truck turn-times, ensuring dray partner productivity and satisfaction
• Vessel productivity, enhancing carrier asset utilization and cost management

The Central Rail Yard will complement the investment of semi-automation of Norfolk International Terminals with an expansion and modernization of its on-dock rail operation. This will provide new rail capacity for our customers who rely on efficient rail service to move their cargo.

The project will implement the same technology, successfully deployed at Virginia International Gateway, that has demonstrated substantial operational efficiencies resulting in the faster movement of your cargo.

Customer Benefits:

• Efficient intermodal rail transfer, providing rapid supply chain delivery to key consumption markets
• Reduction of road traffic and congestion, enhancing dray partner productivity and satisfaction

In a historic effort between the port, federal and state elected leaders, the US Army Corps of Engineers’ Norfolk District office and the Virginia Maritime Association – the funding has been secured for the port and the US Army Corps to bring the Norfolk Harbor widening and deepening project to fruition. This 50-50 cost share project between the federal government and the port is a strategic initiative that will increase the depth of the Norfolk Harbor to 55 feet, Thimble Shoal Channel to a depth of 56 feet with widening to accommodate two-way vessel traffic, and the Atlantic Ocean Channel to a depth of 59 feet. An additional benefit of the project includes utilizing the dredged sands to offer additional coastal protection to local beaches.

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The initiative will construct a new drop lot allowing long-haul drivers a place to store containers while the terminal is closed. In addition, the modernized gate will consist of two inbound and two outbound lanes that will mirror the successful gate functionality at Virginia International Gateway (VIG) and Norfolk International Terminals (NIT). The new functionality will bring a higher level of safety to the facility by allowing the interchange of containers to be completed in the main terminal building instead of outside in the gate lanes.

This initiative will convert a mainly wheeled operation to a densified rubber tire gantry (RTG) crane operation, making better use of the facility footprint, increase efficiency and create more storage space. A new three-track bundle will create 4,400 linear feet of working track.

Our Virginia International Gateway (VIG) Terminal now features the largest cranes on the East Coast. This project increases cargo and container capacity by expanding the berth at VIG another 800 feet to accommodate as many as three ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) at the same time. The Port of Virginia constructed 13 new semi-automated container stacks serviced by 26 rail-mounted gantry cranes, creating more room to stack and sort shipping containers.

The Port of Virginia has completed the renovation of Norfolk International Terminals (NIT) Southern Berth, with $350 million provided by the General Assembly. This project transformed the oldest and largest terminal of the port into one of the most state-of-the-art terminals on Earth. Utilizing the same footprint, 60 new semi-automated stacking cranes have added 46% capacity, while also making the terminal safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly.

Our commitment to net-zero emissions by 2040 includes transitioning to renewable energy sources across all port operations, reducing fuel emissions, and investing in zero-emission technologies. The Port of Virginia will continue to invest in initiatives in support of our commitment.

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