The Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority convened its monthly meeting on April 29, where significant developments in port activities and future plans were announced.
Chairman Ric Campo proudly declared that the Houston Ship Channel has reclaimed its status as the top waterway in the United States, according to a recent report by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
The port is a central hub for waterborne commerce, managing approximately 12% of the nation’s total cargo tonnage.
The latest statistics reveal that 309.5 million short tons of cargo traversed the channel in 2023, marking a 5.3% increase from the previous year.
This impressive figure far exceeds that of any other port in the country, driving home the Channel’s critical role in the U.S. economy.
Notably, the tonnage differential between the Houston Ship Channel and its nearest competitor is greater than that seen among 97% of ports nationwide.
“This ranking reinforces just how vital the Houston Ship Channel is for our region and for the entire nation,” asserted Chairman Campo, emphasizing the pivotal role that the Channel plays in job creation and economic stability.
The expansion project known as Project 11 is underway, aimed at ensuring the waterway remains open, safe, and competitive for years to come.
The Houston Ship Channel, spanning 52 miles, supports over 200 private and eight public terminals, servicing various sectors ranging from petrochemicals and heavy machinery to consumer goods and energy.
This extensive operation contributes significantly to the national economy, sustaining 3.37 million jobs and generating an impressive $906 billion in annual economic activity.
In addition to the good news about the channel’s ranking, Chairman Campo brought attention to the ongoing evaluation of tariffs affecting port operations.
He pointed out that potential tariffs could impact Port Houston’s operational expenses, particularly regarding the acquisition of key equipment like STS cranes.
Campo called on the administration to collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop solutions that bolster domestic manufacturing while minimizing adverse effects on workers, exporters, and consumers.
The meeting also highlighted transitions in Port Houston’s executive leadership.
CEO Charlie Jenkins acknowledged the retirement of Chief Operating Officer Tom Heidt, who has dedicated 43 years to the port.
Heidt has fulfilled several roles during his long career, with his most recent role as COO since 2015.
“Tom has dedicated his career to Port Houston, and we appreciate him and all he has done to help grow the port to what it is today,” remarked Jenkins, noting the implications of Heidt’s retirement for the organization’s leadership.
This transition opens doors for new leadership opportunities, with several appointments confirmed effective May 1, 2025.
Chief People Officer Jessica Shaver will take on the role of Chief Administrative Officer, overseeing strategic planning and people management.
In turn, Chief Business Equity Officer Carlecia Wright will step into the Chief People Officer position, while Candice Armenoff, Director of Operations and Planning, will become the Chief Strategy Officer.
Additionally, Port Houston is in search of a new Chief Operating Officer, responsible for managing vital aspects of the organization’s commercial, operational, maintenance, and infrastructure endeavors.
Updates on Project 11 indicate ongoing progress, with the USACE preparing to award the second contract for the construction of the Beltway 8 Dredged Material Placement Area.
Port-led dredging contracts with Weeks Marine and Callan Marine are also advancing within budget, with full completion of the final segment in the Galveston Bay area expected by mid-2025.
Operations statistics show a slight decline of 2% in total tonnage across all public terminals through March, although this marks an improvement over the previous month’s performance impacted by adverse weather conditions.
Since the beginning of the year, container volumes have surged past 1 million TEU, remaining steady when compared to last year.
March witnessed record-breaking activity at the container terminals owing to a 13% year-on-year increase in export volume, a rebound from the lows of February.
Conversely, multipurpose facility volumes have declined by 7% since the start of the year, but showed a slight month-over-month recovery of 2%.
This rebound is attributed to a rise in steel volumes, which increased by 4%, despite continued weakness in liquid imports and dry bulk export volumes.
Charlie Jenkins further mentioned his recent meeting with Congressman Mike Collins of Georgia, Chair of the Water Resources & Environment Subcommittee.
Their discussion revolved around the future prospects of the Houston Ship Channel, its national economic significance, and legislative efforts to enhance maritime transportation and infrastructure.
This relationship is vital as it pertains to the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which guides the USACE directives and highlights legislative priorities.
In a community engagement move, Commissioners DonCarlos, Fitzgerald, and Robb attended a ribbon-cutting event for the newly opened Holly Bay Pavilion at Holly Bay Park in Pasadena, part of Port Houston’s East Harris County Greenspace Program.
Chairman Campo expressed joy in supporting this initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing community spaces for outdoor enjoyment.
Looking ahead, the City of Houston, in collaboration with Port Houston and other partners, is set to host the Navy Fleet Week for the first time in November 2025.
“We are excited to be a part of this celebration, honoring 250 years of the U.S. Marines and Navy,” declared Jenkins, noting that a few ships will be hosted at the terminals during this significant event.
Lastly, the Port Commission approved the Port Authority’s Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), receiving an unmodified opinion without findings, indicating fiscal health and accountability.
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