As part of a modernization effort, the Port of Lake Charles has rebuilt its original warehouse and torn down two others to use as a laydown yard, said Dan Loughney, marketing and trade development director.

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Loughney said the changes will make room for cargo to be used by Sasol, Trunkline LNG, Magnolia LNG and Cameron LNG in building their facilities. On Thursday, he said, the port received a shipment of seven temporary cranes to help transport project cargo.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">The floors of the old warehouse were caving in under the weight of today’s equipment, and the entrances — built when men hauled cargo by hand — weren’t conducive to forklifts, Loughney said. The new warehouse has strong floors, high ceilings and an open floor plan, he said.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">The port did little to modernize facilities for 40 years before the new board was appointed 10 years ago during a major overhaul of operations, Loughney said. The new board, he said, is more conscious of the modern marketplace and is taking steps to bring the port up to speed.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">“Now it’s our turn to take care of this old girl, and we need to bring her into the 21st century,” Loughney said. “She’s kicking and screaming, but we’re getting her in.”</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Modernization costs have totaled about $158 million over the past two years, he said.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Much of the port’s success depends on global factors beyond its control, Loughney said. But with the efforts of the Port Board and the recent business from local industries, the board’s revenue has managed to surpass that of much larger ports, he said.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">“These are the best times we’ve seen at the port for a very long time,” Loughney said. “We’re headed in the right direction.”</span>

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