The Port of Virginia moved 237,816 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in September, which is growth of nearly eight percent, and container volume up nearly nine percent when compared with the same month last year.

“Our gate volume was up nearly 15 percent, barge volume to Richmond Marine Terminal was up more than 12 percent and automobiles moving across Newport News Marine Terminal increased more than 28 percent, on a year-over-year basis,” said John F. Reinhart, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority (VPA). “We are processing this volume safely, with continued efficiency, consistent service and mitigating adverse impacts on the operation during construction.

“We are making headway on the expansion at Virginia International Gateway and tracking according to schedule,” Reinhart added. “The first rail-mounted gantry cranes are set for delivery in January 2018 and we will be ready.”

With three months remaining in the year, the port is tracking for a positive finish to 2017. On a calendar year basis, total TEU volumes are up 7.5 percent; containers up 8 percent; rail, up 4 percent; trucks, up 9.4 percent; and barge, up 26.5 percent.

“We are seeing continued growth in all of our trade lanes, good peak-season volume and anticipate a solid performance for the remainder of the year,” Reinhart said. “We are now participating in the USDA’s Southeast In-Transit Cold Treatment Pilot program, which clears a direct route to Virginia for fresh fruit and perishables from South America. This program will create an opportunity for further diversification of our cargo mix.

“Further, our work to develop a reservation system for motor carriers was recognized by the Federal Highway Administration and as a result, we received a $1.55 million federal grant to continue our effort. We have forward momentum in several areas and as it all comes together, the result is economic development, investment and job creation for Virginia.”