Brandy Christian highlights wins across all four business lines, outlines plan to deliver Louisiana’s future in competitive global trade market
New Orleans, Louisiana – Brandy D. Christian, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA), along with New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB) CEO, delivered the highly anticipated 2023 State of the Port address. The address, titled “Delivering Louisiana’s Future,” celebrated successes in the Port’s cargo, rail, industrial real estate, and cruise business lines. Christian also emphasized significant progress in the $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) development and major investments in vital maritime infrastructure.
The Port’s achievements were attributed to the robust execution of the master plan adopted in 2018, amplified by unwavering support and collaboration from government and industry partners. Governor John Bel Edwards, present at the event, was acknowledged for his steadfast commitment to the port’s economic mission and Louisiana’s maritime industry over the past eight years.
Under Governor Edwards‘ leadership, several milestones were achieved, including the deepening of the Mississippi River Ship Channel to accommodate deeper-draft vessels, substantial investments through the Port Priority Grant Program, strategic policies promoting collaboration among Louisiana’s ports, and the initiation of the Louisiana International Terminal, a pivotal second container terminal in St. Bernard Parish.
“With deep draft, 100-year federal levee protection, and unhindered access, we are poised to serve vessels of all sizes. Coupled with Louisiana’s unparalleled connections to America’s heartland, we are on track to become the premier gateway in the Gulf,” affirmed Christian.
In a groundbreaking public-private partnership, the state, Port NOLA, and industry leaders Ports America and TiL came together to secure $800 million in private funding for the new container terminal project. Louisiana lawmakers have already allocated nearly $30 million for early development costs, signaling the project’s significance. The Louisiana International Terminal is projected to generate a staggering 32,000 new jobs nationwide, with 18,000 in Louisiana and 4,300 in St. Bernard Parish by 2050, solidifying its status as the state’s most significant public economic development endeavor.
Construction is slated to commence in 2025, with the first berth operational by 2028. At full capacity, LIT is set to handle an annual 2 million TEU (1.2 million containers).
Aside from future endeavors, Port NOLA has invested over $300 million in capital projects over the past five years, enhancing existing port and rail facilities. Notably, the $140 million investment in the Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal bolstered the terminal’s capacity to 1 million TEUs, supported by the addition of four new ship-to-shore gantry cranes.
The Port also prioritized the rehabilitation of breakbulk terminals, bridges, and industrial properties with a $120 million bond issuance, along with an $18 million railcar storage project along the Industrial Canal and in Jefferson Parish. Lineage Logistics’ $42 million expansion of the Jourdan Road cold-storage facility and the $25 million paving project at the Nashville and Napoleon terminals further solidify Port NOLA’s commitment to efficiency and growth.
Port NOLA’s diversified business model has propelled a 70% surge in operating revenues under Christian’s tenure. The strategic alignment with the New Orleans Public Belt railroad has significantly improved overall efficiency and safety, with operating income up nearly 300% since 2018.
The Port’s expansion as an alternative gateway of choice, offering integrated marine and rail solutions, has been a pivotal achievement. Growing intermodal connections to major hubs in Memphis, Chicago, Dallas, and Kansas City, coupled with strategic partnerships with Norfolk Southern Railroad, have bolstered the Port’s position in the market.
Port NOLA’s prominence as Louisiana’s largest breakbulk port remains a critical asset in the global supply chain. Notably, a 47% increase in bagged breakbulk cargo and handling of project cargo for the Venture Global LNG export facility underscore its pivotal role.
In addition to container volumes surging by 10% year-to-date, Port NOLA has seen a nearly 40% increase in container vessel calls, emphasizing the need for continued focus on import growth to maintain balanced trade ratios and support local businesses.
With a strong commitment to sustainability, Port NOLA is making strides in greening the supply chain. Investments in shore power at the Louisiana International Terminal, alongside the expansion of container-on-barge services, showcase the port’s dedication to reducing emissions.
Christian concluded with an emphasis on people, recognizing that the Port’s success is a testament to the industry’s collective efforts. A commitment to fostering a diverse and high-performing workforce, alongside collaborations with community partners, underscores the Port’s dedication to the well-being of its stakeholders and the state of Louisiana.