The new role of the terminal operator will be to reach beyond the traditional handling of cargo. It will be imperative to maximize advancing technology to improve efficiency capabilities. The terminal operator must be more involved in improving the supply chain by improving the landside operations experience. Greater mobility with rail and trucking in and out of the ports may require augmented space and larger train connectivity to interact with the balance of the supply chain.
In the near future, stakeholders should see added value in terms of automation, labor flexibility, environmental initiatives and elimination of bottlenecks. The renewed focus on aging infrastructure reflects the growing importance and understanding of port area needs as well as the need to improve infrastructure throughout adjacent communities in order to meet cargo-moving demands in the years to come. Public-private partnerships will play a critical role as more attention is paid to expanding and modernizing the surrounding infrastructure for the benefit of the stakeholders and affected communities.
Infrastructure improvements necessary to remain competitive are costly. With trade volume improving despite the slow economy, public-private partnerships are benefiting both sides. Such partnerships are contributing factors in preparing for anticipated growth from all trade lanes and larger ships transiting the Panama Canal after 2014. By using private capital to fund multimillion-dollar structural enhancements to port facilities, port authorities can focus their limited funds on the wider community. The public ultimately benefits through job growth opportunities and lower tax-dollar usage.