Expansion of Port of Nanaimo’s Duke Point operation gets $46 million boost from Ottawa

Expansion of Port of Nanaimo's Duke Point operation gets $46 million boost from Ottawa
Port of Nanaimo
The federal government announced funding Wednesday of $46.2 million in funding, which will allow the Port of Nanaimo to make major infrastructure upgrades and expansions at its Duke Point facilities.

New federal funding will allow the Port of Nanaimo to make major infrastructure expansions and improvements at its Duke Point facilities.

Federal Transportation Minister Marc Garneau announced Ottawa will contribute $46.2 million.

The funding will lead to the expansion of the existing wharf to 325 metres from the current 182, replace an existing crane with two 24-metre cranes, the construction of a new warehouse and other buildings, along with other facility upgrades.

The Port of Nanaimo says an estimated 900 jobs will be created during construction, besides the long-term employees working at the expanded facilities.

Ian Marr, Port of Nanaimo CEO, says the funding is an integral part of the Port’s goal to expand its cargo and short-sea shipping operations.

“With our location and the high volumes of cargo moving into and out of Vancouver and Vancouver Island, we are ideally situated to become the primary point of entry and exit for trans-shipment of goods for Vancouver Island,” Marr said in a statement.

Marr says the Port is coming off its best financial year, and the expansion and improvements at the Duke Point operation will create new growth in the region.

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