Virginia Maritime Bulletin, Vol. 87, No. 3, May 2023

CHESAPEAKE WORKING ON NEW VISION FOR INDUSTRIAL WATERFRONT

CHESAPEAKE |Chesapeake’s waterfront along the Elizabeth River’s Southern Branch has been a hub for industry for many years, hosting companies like VMA members, Perdue, Kinder Morgan, Enviva, and many others. While other cities across the country are grappling with the challenge of redeveloping aging industrial areas, Chesapeake officials have a different vision for their waterfront. They aim to maintain the area’s industrial character while incorporating measures to address sea-level rise threats and stimulate future economic development.

The city’s project, known as the Industrial Waterfront Study, is currently underway and involves a 16-month process that includes gathering public input. The goal is to strike a balance between various demands, such as industrial, residential, commercial, and recreational uses along the waterfront. City officials emphasize the need for a comprehensive and balanced approach to ensure the area’s sustainable growth. The VMA has been working for

almost a year to assist the City of Chesapeake with the study. Last summer, the VMA was invited to participate and advise the city and help key staff better understand the industrial waterfront within

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VIRGINIA’S AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY EXPORTS SET RECORD AT $5.1 BILLION

RICHMOND |On April 11, 2023, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the latest data for Virginia’s agricultural and forestry exports at the Virginia Inland Port facility in Richmond. According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Virginia’s 2022 agricultural and forestry exports were valued at more than $5.1 billion, surpassing the previous record set in 2021 by 25%.

The Governor expressed his excitement about the data and praised the strength of Virginia’s first and third-largest private industries. He also highlighted the successful relationships established between Virginia’s producers and international buyers, stating that “these export numbers speak to the high quality and value of Virginia products.”

Virginia’s top agricultural and forestry exports for 2022 were soybeans, animal products, tobacco, wood products, and beer. Soybeans alone earned over $2.3 billion, while wood products earned more than $509 million. One of the most significant increases of 2022 was in wood pellets, which saw a 1,379% increase versus the yearly average, likely due to increased demand in Europe and Asia.

Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, Matthew Lohr, also praised Virginia’s premier transportation system, which he believes gives the state a strategic advantage in exporting products to international markets. “Virginia producers benefit from the Commonwealth’s premier transportation system, which is anchored by the Port of Virginia,” said Lohr.

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“The Voice of Port Industries”

A view towards the Chesapeake waterfront near the Jordan Bridge, along the Elizabeth River’s Southern Branch. (Image: Katherine Hafner)

Photo

VMA COMMITTEES

OFFICERS

Chairman of the Board

Michael Coleman

President

Judy Barrett

Vice Presidents

Lang Williams

Capt. Kenneth Flowers

Capt. Whiting Chisman

Executive Director & Secretary

David White

Treasurer

Camille Cherry

Assistant Treasurer

Tracy Gregorio

STAFF

Vice President of Finance & Administration.............................. Sam Davis

Vice President of Industry & Government Affairs....................... Will Fediw

Director of Membership Development............................ Kristen Greene

Executive Assistant.................... Shayla Prince

Event Manager & Accounting Assistant................ Jennifer Parham

Marketing Manager ................ Jennifer Deason

Membership & Publications Coordinator........................... Susan Wisniewski

For Questions about the Bulletin or Advertising jdeason@vamaritime.com - 757.628.2667

3/16 Offshore Wind| Updates were received from Dominion Energy, Avangrid Renewables, and Orsted, as well as an update from the U.S. Coast Guard on Central Atlantic activities. A presentation was also given on energy credits and power acquisition, and lunch was provided afterwards from DLS Marine.

3/21 Communication & Outreach| Port Day 2023 was reviewed, as well as the status of legislation and budget requests from the 2023 session. Various federal updates were given, including the status of funding for the Southern Branch. Finally, the Committee reviewed assigned action items from the VMA’s 2022 Strategic Plan and discussed the creation of VMA “Ambassadors.”

3/23 Environmental Affairs| An overview of legislative items pertaining to environmental regulations in the 2023 session of the General Assembly was presented, as well as several regulatory updates. Dredging activity and other sustainability and resiliency programs were discussed.

4/3 Harbor Anchorage, Dredging, & Navigational Rules| Updates were received on various dredging projects and navigation initiatives, including offshore wind project siting and safety fairways. The U.S. Coast Guard also shared information on an upcoming anchorage assessment, inviting interested members to participate.

UPCOMING

June 1 from 5:00 - 7:30 PM

4/11 Terminal Operators| Updates were received on various dredging projects and navigation initiatives, as well as information on several federal grant opportunities for members to take advantage of. Increasing participation from other terminal operators was also discussed.

4/12 Towing & Barge| Discussions took place on ongoing operational issues with several local bridges, as well as upcoming bridge repair projects. A standardized reporting form for bridge non-compliance was also discussed, as well as several other safety best practices.

4/12 Inland Transportation| Discussions took place on recent TMTA/Pier Committee progress on remaining work items, also receiving an update on Hampton Blvd. motor carrier hours. A presentation was also given on growing economic development in the City of Suffolk and future traffic routing considerations.

4/19 Education & Training| Assigned action items from the VMA’s 2022 Strategic Plan, as well as ongoing efforts around internships were reviewed. A presentation was also given on the Newport New Shipyard’s workforce needs.

For more information about VMA Committees, contact Shayla Prince, at sprince@vamaritime.com.

VMA EVENTS

June 27 from 7:00 - 9:00 AM

Contact jdeason@vamaritime.com to Advertise in the Next Bulletin!

Maritime Mixer, Tickets $55

VMA Breakfast Briefing

The Famous Venue Norfolk Yacht & Country Club

Portsmouth, VA Norfolk, VA

June 20 from 11:00 - 11:50 AM

August 1 from 10:00 - 11:30 AM

VMA23 ITS Town Hall, Free Member Orientation, Free Virtual Virtual Register for upcoming events at VAmaritime.com.

HRSA ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT

NORFOLK | The Hampton Roads Shipping Association, a VMA member, announced the selection of Jeremy Bridges as the association’s President effective May 1, 2023. He brings to HRSA a strong portfolio of work experience and skills expansion with industryleading organizations focusing on collective bargaining, labormanagement relations, and contract administration. “Our industry and

our workforce are changing, and we are confident he is the best choice for the future of the labor relations in our port. Jeremy possesses the right experience, skills, and characteristics to strategically and effectively work with our ILA partners to make the Port of Virginia the most productive and safest place to work the ships and cargo of our port customers.” stated Jim Michalski, HRSA Board Chairman.

Mr. Bridges will succeed Roger Giesinger, HRSA’s leader of the last twenty-eight years, who last year announced his plans for retirement. Mr. Giesinger will remain as President Emeritus during a brief period in order to facilitate a smooth transition.

MARITIME LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE PROGRAM 2023 GRADUATES

Being a leader among professionals within the maritime supply chain industries requires insight that goes beyond your desk, your company, and even your industry sector. Over the past year, VMA’s Maritime Leadership Certification Program (MLCP) class of 2023 experience tours of tugs, terminals, and shipyards, seeing package delivery trucks being manufactured, an improv class, lessons in negotiations, team dynamics training, volunteering to bag oysters to restore the Chesapeake Bay, lobbying lawmakers during VMA’s Port Day in Richmond, and so much more. These MLCP graduates take away unforgettable memories, a deeper understanding of the maritime and supply chain industries, new leadership skills, and a lasting network of colleagues and friends. Congratulations on this accomplishment.

Ben Anderson Joe Locke

Bryndan Bailey

Kimberly Blossom

John Burch

Damian Cornick

Nolan Davis

Bentley Dudek

Chad Gregg

Charles Jones

Kara Moran

Rachel Nightengale

Corey Parker

Bryan Peeples

Michael Quarg

Paul Taylor

Samantha Taylor

Tatyana Thomas

James Levantino Chrystian Uzzle

Jeremy Bridges,President

CHESAPEAKE (CONT.)

Chesapeake’s borders through educational sessions, stakeholder connection, meeting facilitation, and tours.

Last November, a stakeholder meeting was held where relevant maritime industry stakeholders had the opportunity to connect with the study team, ask, and answer questions. A large portion of the meeting highlighted the economic importance of the commercial maritime sector on the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River, as well as how deepening the channel would further benefit industry growth. Many VMA members from the Southern Branch were present, offering valuable feedback and tour opportunities.

Another meeting was held earlier in April to share updates, and it was noted that the 2022 Ports Annual was used as a critical tool to update their ArcGIS page. Furthermore, the VMA’s Will Fediw was able to share recent advancements in the deepening of the Southern Branch.

“Chesapeake’s Industrial Waterfront Study is happening at the perfect time,” said Will Fediw. “The maritime community has known the value of the Southern Branch for decades, and getting the full support of the city is critical in our efforts to deepen the Southern Branch. It’s great to see the enthusiasm of the Chesapeake team, and we’re doing everything we can to facilitate their work.”

The study focuses on the potential risks associated with climate change, with the intention of developing a plan that considers sea-level rise, storm-water runoff, increased rainfall, and other environmental challenges. The consulting firm Waggonner & Ball, known for its resilience work following Hurricane Katrina, is leading the project. Their expertise will be instrumental in crafting recommendations to address these challenges.

Chesapeake is fortunate to have more high-ground waterfront land compared to neighboring cities like Norfolk and Portsmouth. This provides an advantage in terms of potential development opportunities. The study aims to identify areas suitable for new businesses and infrastructure improvements. It also highlights the importance of preserving ecologically valuable areas along the river that may not be suitable for development.

Enhancing public access to the waterfront is another key aspect of the study. Currently, only Elizabeth River Park offers significant waterfront recreation opportunities in the study area. Residents of nearby neighborhoods, such as South Norfolk and Crestwood, are geographically close to the waterfront but face challenges in accessing it. City officials are actively seeking ways to improve connectivity and provide better access to this valuable natural resource for local communities.

The Industrial Waterfront Study is an important step for Chesapeake in planning for the future while considering the realities of climate change. By embracing a balanced approach and incorporating public input, city officials are working towards a vision that ensures the preservation of the area’s industrial heritage while maximizing its potential for sustainable economic growth and community wellbeing.

AGRICULTURE & FORESTRY EXPORTS (CONT.)

In addition, Governor Youngkin announced plans to lead the Virginia delegation in visiting Taipei City, Taiwan; Tokyo, Japan; and Seoul, South Korea in April. Taiwan and Japan are two of Virginia’s top export destinations. The VDACS Office of International Marketing assists Virginia’s agricultural, food, and forest product producers in assessing market potential, understanding international regulations, identifying buyers, and learning about product-specific export programs and marketing events.

The latest data on Virginia’s agricultural and forestry exports is a clear indication of the success of the state’s producers and the importance of international trade to Virginia’s economy. With Governor Youngkin’s plans to lead the delegation to Asia, it is clear that Virginia’s producers are committed to expanding their markets and using Virginia’s ports to continue driving the state’s economy forward.

PROPOSED ODU-LED LAB SCHOOL TO FOCUS ON COMPUTER SCIENCE

NORFOLK | In March, Old Dominion University received two state planning grants totaling $400,000 to develop lab school proposals with Newport News and Chesapeake school divisions in Virginia. Lab schools are public schools affiliated with colleges and universities that leverage “innovative educational service delivery models” to serve as a place for teacher training, curriculum development, and educational experimentation. If approved, the lab school programs would launch in fall 2024, with one focused on the maritime field and another offering a computer science program to underrepresented students. These schools are funded through a $100 million appropriation by Virginia’s General Assembly to support the development.

VMA23 REGISTRATION OPEN

NORFOLK | Registration opened for VMA23, the east coast’s premier conference on ports, logistics, and trade. VMA23 will be held on October 4-6, 2023 at the Hilton Norfolk | The Main in Norfolk, VA.

This year’s theme, “Navigating Routes to Reliability” focuses on how increasingly complex supply chains are critical to the success of businesses and economies alike, and the need for reliability has become more crucial than ever before. Ensuring the reliability of supply chains moving forward has become a top priority for businesses, governments, and global stakeholders. Several shippers will be integrated into the agenda to provide real-world insights.

Attendees of the VMAs 20th International Trade Symposium will gain insights into the current issues and trends in today’s maritime industry, hear industry experts, government officials, and business leaders discuss a wide range of topics related to international trade, transportation, and logistics, and network with other professionals in the industry. The International Trade Symposium will feature 30+ expert speakers and three full days of industry discussion and networking events including the maritime mixer, maritime banquet, and golf. Early bird and BCO discounts are offered for a limited time. To register, visit our website at VMAsymposium.com

VESSELS BY TYPE

CLUB CONTACTS

Customs Brokers & Int’l Freight Forwarders Assn. Ben Nelson • cbiffa.va@gmail.com

Hampton Roads Coal Association Finn Host • treasurer@hrcoal.org hrcoal.org

Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council Kevin Speers • info@hrgcc.org hrgcc.org

ULTRA LARGE CONTAINER VESSELS (ULCV)

DISTRIBUTION OF COAL DUMPINGS

PORT OF HAMPTON ROADS

TEU’S

Propeller Club - Port of Norfolk Noel Stokes • norfolkpropellerclub@gmail.com PropellerClubNorfolk.org

Shenandoah Valley Traffic Club shenandoahtrafficclub@gmail.com shenandoahtrafficclub.com

Tidewater Motor Truck Association Ray Jalkio • ray@servicetransfer.net tmtava.org

Virginia Ship Repair Association Sylvia Bell • 757-233-7034 VirginiaShipRepair.org

Virginia International Business Council robert.davenport@vdacs.virginia.gov vaibc.org

ASSOCIATION IN ACTION

During the 2023 Virginia General Assembly legislative session, VMA’s priorities included increased investment in business ready site development and transportation infrastructure, funding for a new inland port in southwest Virginia, continued investment in successful workforce development programs, and advancing offshore wind. At the time of writing, the legislature had yet to conclude budget negotiations, and VMA continues to emphasize these priorities.

In 2023, all 140 seats in the Senate and House of the General Assembly are up for election. Redistricting and retirements will result in the election of new members and a loss of institutional knowledge at unprecedented levels. To protect and advance the interests of our industry, the VMA is increasing its visibility and efforts to be best positioned to work with those who will be elected to serve in 2024 and beyond. In April, this included attending several events well-attended by leaders in the executive branch, and current and prospective members of the General Assembly.

The City of Chesapeake is undertaking an Industrial Waterfront Study to create a vision for the economy and environment at the waterfront, a strategy to analyze and transcend vulnerabilities and leverage infrastructural opportunities for safety, resilience, health, and prosperity on the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River. VMA participated during an April 17 workshop to represent industry interests.

VMA is frequently honored to give presentations about Virginia’s ports and maritime and supply chain industries. In April, presentations or remarks were made at Old Dominion University’s First Annual Maritime Symposium, the Portsmouth Port & Industrial Commission, and to the 2023 class of Lead Virginia. Lead Virginia is comprised of senior level professionals who seek a deeper understanding of the distinct issues and opportunities in each region of Virginia.

VMA represents the interests of our port and member businesses on a number of standing boards, advisory committees, and in other venues.

In April, these included:

• Virginia Economic Development Partnership Advisory Committee on International Trade

• ODU Maritime and Supply Chain Advisory Council

• Virginia Offshore Wind Development Authority, chaired by VMA’s Will Fediw

Respected as “The Voice of Port Industries,” VMA is frequently asked to lend its support or comment about issues, initiatives, and projects. In April, this included:

• A letter supporting an application submitted by the Virginia Port Authority for a Port Infrastructure Development Program federal grant for wharf improvements at Norfolk International Terminals.

• A letter supporting an application submitted by Old Dominion University for a state grant under the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative to help small and medium companies in the maritime and supply chain industry to develop cybersecurity capabilities, resilience, and develop cyber threat assessment plans.

• A letter supporting the City of Portsmouth’s application under the Good Jobs, Good Cities program for a grant to work with businesses, training providers, and the regional workforce board to address workforce challenges in the offshore wind industry.

DEMOLITION TO BEGIN AT LAMBERT’S POINT TO MAKE WAY FOR FAIRWINDS LANDING

NORFOLK | Fairwinds Landing is set to begin demolition at the Lambert’s Point Docks property to make way for its future use as a hub for offshore wind energy, shipbuilding, and maritime logistics. The company, owned by local developer Jerry Miller, signed a 30year lease with Norfolk Southern last year for use of the 111-acre property.

Fairwinds Landing was recently awarded a $3.5 million grant from the state for the demolition work, while the Norfolk Economic Development Authority has entered into a memorandum of

understanding with the company to apply for a $2.6 million Maritime Administration grant for rehabbing the 6,000 linear feet of waterfront. Fairwinds is also looking to work with the City of Norfolk to improve road access to the site, aiming to avoid as much disruption to the surrounding neighborhoods as possible.

Fairwinds Landing will transform the underutilized Lambert’s Point Dock cargo terminal with the potential to bring significant economic benefits to the area.

NEW MEMBERS

ALBEMARLE TUG COMPANY

SILVER ANCHOR

Towing and Transportation (Shipdocking and/or Barges)

107 Sedgefield Road Moyock, NC 27958

h Capt. Roger Morgan, Jr. Owner roger@albemarletugco.com; (252) 435-9011

h Ms. Kelly Morgan kelly@albemarletugco.com

AON

Affiliated Business Insurance Services and/or Counselors

1833 Elmart Lane North Chesterfield, VA 23235 aon.com

h Mr. Richard C. Robertson

Vice President richard.robertson@aon.com; (804) 690-0105

CARGOMATIC

GOLDEN ANCHOR

Motor Carriers/Intermodal

223 E. City Hall Avenue Norfolk, VA 23510 cargomatic.com

h Ms. Marguerite Bates-Frier

Vice President, East Coast Operations mbatesfrier@cargomatic.com; (866) 513-2343

h Ms. Alexandra Konikoff

General Counsel

h Mr. Robert Kusiciel

Vice President, Commercial

h Mr. Guillermo Sabory

Manager, Operational Excellence

h Ms. Amber Leonard

Vice President, Communications & Marketing

h Ms. Moni Slawson

Account Manager

CONVERGINT

Cargo/Maritime Related Services

Marine Security Consultants

2812 E. Parham Rd. Henrico, VA 23228 convergint.com

h Mr. Phillip Jordan

Account Executive phillip.jordan@convergint.com; (804) 347-0272

CORRELL GROUP

Cargo/Maritime Related Services

Environmental Engineers/Scientists and Planners

4525 Main Street, Suite 710 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 correllservices.com

h Mr. Joshua Tessendorf

U.S. Country Manager joshuatessendorf@correllservices.com; (757) 567-9708

FAHRENHEIT ADVISORS

Affiliated Business Consultants

114 Goose Hill Way Smithfield, VA 23430 fahrenheitadvisors.com

h Ms. CJ Spady Managing Director cj.spady@comcast.net; (757) 775-4004

FAIRWINDS LANDING, LLC

Vessel or Marine Terminal Operations Terminal Operators 2649 Production Road Virginia Beach, VA 23454

h Mr. Michael Hopkins Managing Director mhopkins@fairwindslandingva.com; (757) 618-5763

LIEBHERR USA

Cargo/Maritime Related Exporters and Importers 4800 Chestnut Avenue Newport News, VA 23607 liebherr.com

h Mr. Chris Bresnahan Logistics Manager chris.bresnahan@liebherr.com

h Ms. Claire Worth, YMP* Compliance Manager claire.worth@liebherr.com; (757) 928-2202

LIGHTSPEED DISPATCHING, LLC

Cargo/Maritime Related Services Motor Carrier/Intermodal 3534 Iberis Lane Toano, VA 23167 lightspeeddispatching.com

h Mr. Roger Snell Owner lightspeed.dispatching@gmail.com; (703) 200-8045

MICHELS CONSTRUCTION, INC.

BRONZE ANCHOR

Contractors and Construction Supplies/Equipment 617 Main Street Brownsville, WI 53006 michels.us

h Mr. Benjamin Peterson East Coast Regional Manager bpeterson@michels.us; (920) 583-3132

h Ms. Terry DeMeo tdemeo@michels.us

NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE

Affiliated Business Training/Education/Research 191 Fayette Street Martinsville, VA 24122

h Ms. JoAnn Shellhammer-Fox jfox@newcollegeinstitute.org; (276) 403-5671

SOUTHEAST STREAMLINE, INC

Cargo/Maritime Related Services Motor Carriers/Intermodal 1371 Carrollton Pike Woodlawn, VA 24381

h Ms. Jennifer Bianco Vice President jennifer@southeaststream.com; (540) 320-3277

VENTURE DYNAMICS ENTERPRISES, INC Affiliated Business Labor Organization 904 Loudoun Avenue Portsmouth, VA 23707

h Mr. George Haley President ghaley@venture-dynamics.net; (757) 398-2980

VOLVO PENTA

Cargo/Maritime Related Services

Marine and Industrial Suppliers/Ship Chandlers 1300 Volvo Penta Drive Chesapeake, VA 23322 volvopenta.com

h Mr. Dave Brown Director Marine Commercial Sales dave.w.brown@volvo.com; (757) 436-7800

Photo by: Independent Docking Pilots

P.O. Box 3487

Norfolk, Virginia 23510

NEW ADDITIONAL REPS

CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Government: City State Federal Virginia Beach, VA7

h Ms. Paige M. Fox, YMP*

Business Development Manager pmcgraw@vbgov.com; (757) 385-6485

CV INTERNATIONAL

Freight Forwarders and Customhouse Brokers

Norfolk, VA7

h Ms. Susan Baksh-Petway Customs Brokerage Supervisorspetway@cvinternational.com; (757) 466-1170

h Mr. Nolan Smith

Export Manager nsmith@cvinternational.com; (757) 466-1170

h Mr. Hayden Snow, YMP* Regional Sales Manager hsnow@cvinternational.com; (704) 357-1444

GREENSVILLE TRANSPORT CO.

Tank Container Specialist, Storage Depot/Loaded Lift Chesapeake, VA7

h Mr. Thomas Stolebarger

Assistant Terminal Manager/Tank Manager tstolebarger@boassoglobal.com; (757) 374-0512

MCGUIRE WOODS, LLP

Law Firm

Norfolk, VA

h Ms. Jeanne Noonan jnoonan@mcguirewoods.com; (757) 640-3827

PLATINUM ANCHORS

VULCAN MATERIALS COMPANY. Towing and Transportation (Shipdocking and/or Barges) North Chesterfield, VA

h Mr. Todd Miller, YMP*

General Manager millerto@vmcmail.com; (757) 642-2907

W.M. JORDAN

Contractors and Construction Supplies/Equipment Newport News, VA

h Mr. Glenn Thompson Vice President, Business Development millerto@vmcmail.com; (757) 642-2907

*Young Maritime Professional

Bay Power Solutions

Cargomatic

CV International, Inc.

Excel Trucking Group

Albemarle Tug Company

AdvanSix

BDO USA, LLP

Capes Shipping Agencies

Capital Financial Group

CMA CGM (America), LLC

Colliers

ECPI University

Enviva

FORVIS

Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.

Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.

Seajacks UK Limited

T. Parker Host

GOLDEN ANCHORS SILVER ANCHORS

Givens Logistics, LLC

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co.

Kokosing Industrial

Kuehne + Nagel, Inc.

Marine Oil Service, Inc.

Pender & Coward, P.C.

Perdue Agribusiness, LLC

Port City Transportation

SeaGate Terminals, LLC

Shopify

VHB

Virginia Pilot Association

Wood Rogers Vandeventer Black PLC

Tecnico Corporation

Tidewater Staffing, Inc.

TMEIC Corporation

Truist.

Virginia Natural Gas

Virginia Tech Corporation Research Center

Wells Fargo Bank

W.M. Jordan