Ports Briefs: Container Dwell Fee’s Still Hold; Infrastructure Bill Helps POLB With Navigational Improvements

Ports Keep ‘Container Dwell Fee’ on Hold

The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach announced Jan. 28, that consideration of the “Container Dwell Fee” will be held off another week, until Feb. 4.

The two ports have seen a combined decline of 67% in aging cargo on the docks since the program was announced on Oct. 25.

The executive directors of both ports will reassess fee implementation after monitoring data over the next week. Fee implementation has been postponed by both ports since the start of the program.

Federal Funding Announced for Navigation Improvements

LONG BEACH— The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is receiving $8 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to help make navigational efficiency improvements to Port of Long Beach waterways that will allow visiting ships to transit the harbor faster, reduce transportation costs and cut pollution.

Last October, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers signed a chief’s report showing deepening and widening channels in the harbor would lead to air pollution reductions, improved vessel navigation and national economic benefits of almost $21 million each year.

Among other features, the recommended plan includes deepening the Approach Channel from 76 feet to 80 feet, constructing an approach channel to Pier J South to a depth of 55 feet, deepening portions of the West Basin from 50 feet to 55 feet, and performing structural improvements to breakwaters at Pier J to allow for depths of 55 feet. 

The funds awarded this week will help initiate and complete the preconstruction, engineering and design phase.

Details: Final Integrated Feasibility Report, www.spl.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Projects-Studies