Page 17 - Port of Baltimore - Issue 4 - 2024

FROM SETBACK TO SURGE:
Ports America Chesapeake’s Strategic Response to
Port Challenges
Following the Key Bridge incident, Ports America Chesapeake is restoring the flow of containers and roll-on/roll- off (ro/ro) cargo to Seagirt and Dundalk Marine Terminals.
“Our commitment to innovation, safety and operational excellence remains unwavering,” said Mark Schmidt, President of Ports America Chesapeake. “We are confident that the strategic investments we’ve made, including new equipment, infrastructure upgrades and workforce training, will position the Port of Baltimore for continued growth and success.”
Seagirt’s August volumes reached 60% of the volume handled the same time a year ago.
Investing in Equipment
and Infrastructure
Ports America Chesapeake has invested in new equipment to enhance operations. Additional new rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes have been acquired, adding to the four already onsite, and there are four more scheduled for delivery in September. These state- of-the-art cranes significantly improve container handling capacity, supporting the rebound in Seagirt volumes.
Boosting Auto,
Ro/Ro Volumes
In addition to containers, ro/ro volumes are seeing positive trends, with over 190,000 autos and more than 35,000 heavy machinery units handled. Baltimore is the nation’s leading ro/ro port and this uptick is a key indicator of its resilience.
Ongoing Terminal Upgrades
and Electrification
Terminal upgrades continue to be a priority, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. The electrification of the container yard underscores Ports America Chesapeake’s commitment to reducing its environmental
footprint and enhancing operational performance. The upcoming opening of the new Vail Street gate this fall will further streamline traffic flow, reduce congestion and improve access.
Training and Safety:
A Strong Focus
Ports America Chesapeake has achieved record levels of training
for International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) operators. This investment in workforce development ensures that the Port remains a leader in operational excellence. Moreover, the company’s safety performance has been highly successful, exceeding all internal milestones. This achievement reflects the organization’s dedication to maintaining a safe working environment for all employees.
“The resilience of our team and the strategic steps we’ve taken have been key to this recovery,” said Bennett Creighton, Senior Director
of Operations at Ports America Chesapeake. “We’re not just getting back to where we were; we’re setting the stage for even greater success in the future.”
Ports America Chesapeake is leading the charge with strategic investments, innovative upgrades, and a strong focus on safety and training. Container volumes, coupled with the positive trends in ro/ro operations, set a promising tone for the future. Ports America Chesapeake remains committed to ensuring the Port of Baltimore continues to thrive as a vital hub for global trade. 
containers
Containers account for a majority of the tonnage that moves through Baltimore’s public marine terminals. Baltimore’s state-of-the-art Seagirt Marine Terminal, operated by Ports America Chesapeake, is known for being one of the most efficient container terminals in the country.
From top left: MSC vessel at Seagirt. ILA member Robert Wozniak operates a crane. ILA member Andrew Mcknight oversees the handling of a Maersk container. ILA driver Gwen Williamson.