The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters in Washington, DC, the Civil Works Review Board approved the release of the Brazos Island Harbor (BIH) Channel Improvement Project Final Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment. The panel unanimously agreed that the BIH feasibility study can proceed to State and Agency review.
This action by the Civil Works Review Board culminates approximately seven years of work and preparation to determine the justification of the deepening of the Brownsville Ship Channel from its current authorized depth of 42’ to 52’.
This process is an integral part of securing a signed Chief of Engineer’s Report that substantiates that the deepening project is in the national interest and merits consideration for federal authorization. The Chief’s Report is slated to be issued in September of 2014.
Ralph Cowen, Chairman of the Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners stated, “ This is a significant milestone and one that is critical to the future of the Port of Brownsville. While there is still much work to be done to realize the deepening of the ship channel, this action puts the Port one step closer to accomplishing the success of the project. ”
Port Director & CEO Eduardo A. Campirano added, “ This action could not have been possible without the efforts and contributions of the Port Commissioners, Port Staff, Consultants and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District, we thank all for their hard work and dedication towards this project .”
The Port of Brownsville is a leading in-transit port and major importer of steel in the United States.
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Press Release, July 9, 2014