Port facilities are obviously a major link in an efficient supply chain. There must be a commitment by U.S. ports to be prepared. Investments must continue to be made not only in port cargo-handling facilities, but equally in maintenance and development of our waterways, as well as the planning and building of sufficient freight transportation networks to and from our terminals. We must be ready to handle increased demand to maintain the efficient flow of cargo and avoid supply chain congestion.
Growth in some parts of the United States is robust, particularly in the U.S. Gulf region, which is driven by the renaissance of the energy sector and rapid investment in facilities for manufacture of petrochemical-related products for export around the world.
The growing population in this region and expansion of the Panama Canal will increase the natural demand for imports through development of distribution centers near major ports.
This will provide economic prosperity for some ports, but is rapidly placing a strain on current infrastructure and the ability to fund future projects to stay ahead of the demand curve. The U.S. port industry must remain engaged in legislative initiatives for funding for federal waterways, and for staffing and resources on the security front to allow commerce to flow unimpeded through our ports.
The industry continues to change at a rapid pace. Carriers are partnering in global alliances and ports will see fewer vessel calls and larger ships. Beneficial cargo owners demand consistent and reliable delivery. Pressures to improve processes and technology to further increase cargo velocity and terminal capacity will be a priority in 2015 and beyond.
We must work together to face these challenges to ensure our port and transportation infrastructure is sufficient for the increased economic opportunity and very bright future ahead.
Roger Guenther, Executive Director, Port of Houston Authority