Ontario Construction News staff writer
The federal government has announced up to $5.2 million, under the National Trade Corridors Fund, for the second phase of the Port Weller Dry Docks Cargo Terminal project.
Construction will improve areas of the port that are being used for cargo handling. It will also develop around 11 acres of land that is available, but not being used, from the dockside to the cement trans-loading facility, as well as around the cargo laydown and handling area.
“The National Trade Corridors Fund improves the strength and efficiency of the supply chain, which is key to the success of Canadian companies in the global marketplace,” said Omar Alghabra, minister of transport. “The dry docks cargo terminal project will increase capacity, improve connectivity, and reduce costs for end-users, especially those impacted by the shortage of domestic supply in Ontario.”
As demand for cement continues to rise, and there is less land for port development, this project is expected to increase capacity in the Niagara ports network. It will also improve transportation connections between Niagara ports, making it easier and more efficient to deliver goods to different markets.
“The investment in the Port Weller Dry Docks facility will strengthen the local supply chain and promote further growth in the marine industry, which will benefit not just our companies but our regional, provincial and national economies,” said Ted Kirkpatrick, director of business development and government relations at Heddle Shipyards.
The National Trade Corridors Fund is a competitive, merit-based program designed to help infrastructure owners and users invest in the critical transportation assets that support economic activity in Canada. A total of $4.6 billion over 11 years (2017-2028) has been allocated to the program.