September 29, 2008
Port Metro Vancouver says it is pleased with the Sept. 5 announcement by Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific Gateway) James Moore of up to $20.9 million in federal funding under the Asia Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative Transportation Infrastructure Fund for five short-sea shipping projects and two road projects in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland. The funding is part of a potential $43.5-million joint investment with private sector transportation service providers and municipalities in the region.
“(This) announcement for short-sea shipping has tremendous potential for this region, providing a more sustainable environment by more fully utilizing existing waterways, and reducing impacts on the road infrastructure,” said Gordon Houston, president and CEO of Port Metro Vancouver. “For example, one barge carries as much cargo as 65 trucks, or 15 railcars. So the potential advantages are quite clear,” said Capt. Houston, who joined Mr. Moore for the announcement at Canada Place in Vancouver.
“Short-sea shipping is the marine transport of cargo between points that are relatively close to one another, such as along rivers and coastlines, and represents one of the most promising opportunities for growth in a reliable and sustainable transportation system,” the port said in a release. “Efficient road, rail and waterborne transportation contribute to port productivity and growth, reduce environmental impacts, and can provide an acceptable rate of return on investments. In the long term, innovative transportation solutions like short-sea shipping can promote the sustainability of port business.”
“Short-sea shipping is something that won’t just happen on its own, and so the government’s leadership and involvement, and the participation of the municipal government and private sector partners, are critical in helping to create successful examples that will demonstrate that this concept works,” Capt. Houston added.
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