Volume 87 No. 9
“The Voice of Port Industries”
November 2023
@VAmaritime
COASTAL VIRGINIA OFFSHORE WIND PROJECT ACHIEVES CRITICAL MILESTONES PORTSMOUTH, VA | Dominion Energy’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project (CVOW) has achieved critical milestones, solidifying Virginia as an offshore wind hub. From the initial delivery of the first eight monopiles at the Portsmouth Marine Terminal to the recent regulatory approvals obtained from the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), the progression signifies a significant stride in establishing offshore wind as a viable and sustainable option within the scope of renewable energy. The VMA was instrumental in the siting of this project over a decade ago, and has worked tirelessly since then to help establish the offshore wind supply chain here in the Commonwealth by creating a favorable policy climate, connecting members companies to these emerging opportunities, and deconflicting future offshore wind sites from other ocean users.
components. These monopiles, each about 272 feet long and 31 feet in diameter will be driven into the seabed. The 176 planned turbines will be situated 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach, making up a 2.6-gigawatt wind farm.
Arrival of Monopiles The wind-turbine foundation posts, known as monopiles, arrived at the Portsmouth Marine Terminal on October 19, marking the commencement of Dominion Energy’s $9.8 billion offshore wind farm. Governor Glenn Youngkin, Dominion Energy Chair, President, and CEO Bob Blue, alongside state and local dignitaries, celebrated the arrival of these instrumental
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GOVERNOR YOUNGKIN BREAKS GROUND ON THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED I-64 WIDENING PROJECT RICHMOND, VA| In a momentous step towards enhancing Virginia’s transportation infrastructure, Governor Glenn Youngkin officially broke ground on the highly anticipated I-64 Gap Widening Project. The initiative aims to address critical challenges, such as congestion, safety concerns, and limited capacity, along the I-64 corridor, fostering economic growth and connectivity across the Commonwealth. “Transportation drives commerce, and economic growth, and connects Virginians across the Commonwealth,” stated Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Through continued investments in our local
INSIDE THIS EDITION
and in regional communities, the I-64 Widening Project will help unlock the corridor to unify the Richmond and Hampton Roads regions, enhance job opportunities, and stimulate economic prosperity.” With an overall budget of $756 million, the project involves expanding the I-64 corridor from two lanes to three lanes with 10-foot-wide paved shoulders in both directions. This transformation is expected to facilitate a seamless connection with the Port of Virginia contributing to economic opportunities Continue Reading on Page 4
h VMA Upcoming Events (3)
h Association in Action (6)
h VMA Committee Updates (2)
h Port Statistics (5)
h VMA New Members (7)
h Will Fediw Named SVP (3)
h Matan Develops Logistics Center (5)
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Photo by: InterChange
VMA COMMITTEE UPDATES 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 Senior Vice President....................... Will Fediw Vice President of Finance & Administration.............................. Sam Davis Director of Membership Development............................ Kristen Greene
Cargo Owners October 4, 2023 The Committee met for an exclusive lunch during the VMA23 International Trade Symposium, also inviting nonmember shippers/cargo owners to attend and network.
Education & Training September 21, 2023 Updates were provided on various work items, including the upcoming Guidance Counselor Conference, K-12 supply chain curriculum development, and partnering with local schools. Participation in more regional hiring events was also discussed. Freight Forwarders & Customhouse Brokers September 13, 2023 Briefings were received on local port operations and CBP/USDA staffing levels, and a 2023 shipping trade trends presentation was given. Increased advocacy was also discussed for more CBP/USDA officers. Increases were also discussed.
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
The MARITIME BULLETIN is provided through membership. Contact jdeason@vamaritime.com to Advertise in the Next Bulletin!
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Membership September 12, 2023 Reviewed the strategic plan and the action items directed towards the committee. The committee drafted a DEI statement to be approved by the Board of Directors in November. Updates were also provided about membership numbers for the current fiscal year as well as an update from the Young Maritime Professional Chair, Michael Quarg. Offshore Wind September 28, 2023 A presentation was given on an alternative foundation technology that would not require installation vessels, and updates were provided regarding PMT and Fairwinds Landing. Various project developers and the U.S. Coast Guard also provided updates related to the Central Atlantic.
Port Security August 22, 2023 Presentations were given on AI’s enhancement of security plans and FEMA’s Port Security Grant Program, and several agencies provided midyear updates and new technology applications. Ship Operators & Agents August 14, 2023 Advised on several navigation-related items, including the BOEM’s Central Atlantic Call Area, the U.S. Coast Guard’s Consolidated PARS, and NOAA’s proposed amendments to North Atlantic Right Whale speed reduction regulations. Pilotage rate increases were also discussed. Terminal Operators October 18, 2023 The Committee met at the South Norfolk Memorial Library for a lunch meeting, hearing presentations on current environmental-related items, the Chesapeake Industrial Waterfront Study, and U.S. Coast Guard regulatory operations.
Towing & Barge October 10, 2023 The Hydrogen Technology Center provided an overview on their operation and solicited feedback and participation in a H2-fueled towing vessel pilot project. Bridge closures were also discussed, as well as several waterfront developments, winter weather planning, and regional fleet capacity. Interested in attending a committee meeting? Email Shayla Prince at shayla@vamaritime.com.
VIRGINIA MARITIME ASSOCIATION NAMES WILL FEDIW AS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT NORFOLK, VA | The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) is pleased to announce the promotion of Will Fediw to the position of Senior Vice President. With five years at the VMA, Fediw’s elevation to this role is in recognition of his outstanding leadership within the organization and his commitment to VMA’s mission and member businesses.
Please join us in congratulating Will Fediw on his well-deserved promotion to Senior Vice President. His accomplishments and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding asset to the Virginia Maritime Association.
Mr. Fediw brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Previously serving as VMA’s Vice President of Industry and Government Affairs, he has protected the needs of commercial navigation, advanced business development projects, and spearheaded legislative strategies for the benefit of VMA member companies and Virginia’s ports. He holds a degree in Maritime Supply Chain Management from ODU, an MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, and proudly served as a U.S. Coast Guard Officer excelling in regulatory compliance and marine development. Commenting on the appointment, David White, Executive Director of the Virginia Maritime Association, stated, “We are thrilled to elevate Will to Senior Vice President. Will has made countless contributions to the growth of the Association, the progress of our port, and the protection and improvements to the business environment for our member companies. This promotion recognizes his accomplishments and his increasing leadership role in VMA and our industry. Our members are fortunate to have Will looking out for their interests.”
UPCOMING VMA EVENTS VAmaritime.com/events
December 4, 2023, 10:00 AM Annual Business Meeting Nauticus Auditorium Norfolk, VA Standard Admission: $55 Member Early Bird: $45 by 11/27
December 5, 2023, 5:00 PM Holiday Mixer The Tobacco Co. Restaurant Richmond, VA Member Admission: $50 Non-Member $65
December 14, 2023, 4:00 PM Southwest Chapter Meeting Camrett Logistics Wytheville, VA
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Photo by: Dominion Energy
CVOW CONT.
I-64 WIDENING PROJECT CONT.
Federal Approval
Notable features of the project include improved travel and tourism, ensuring a more efficient connection between Richmond and Hampton Roads. The project is set to benefit Virginia’s critical defense community, enhancing connectivity and readiness.
Manufactured in Germany by EEW SPC, the monopiles embarked on a transatlantic voyage, with eight being delivered at a time until all 176 reach Hampton Roads.
The federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) completed its environmental assessment in late September; BOEM granted a favorable record of decision for the CVOW project. This decision, representing the final step in the National Environmental Policy Act review process, sets the stage for the construction and operations plan. The Department of the Interior also approved Dominion’s plan, demonstrating a commitment to a comprehensive clean energy future. Final approval for the wind farm’s construction and operations plan is anticipated from BOEM on January 29, 2024, with Dominion slated to begin construction in May 2024. Upon completion in late 2026, the turbines, standing at an impressive 836 feet, will power up to 660,000 homes. U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, along with U.S. Representative Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, applauded the Administrations approval of the CVOW project. They recognized the expected impact on homes, job creation, and economic growth in Hampton Roads.
throughout the Commonwealth. Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “Connecting the Central Virginia and Hampton Roads regions is critical to growing Virginia’s economy, and safety is an important component as well. The I-64 Gap Project will improve traffic flow and operations, including strengthening our emergency evacuation routes and ensuring our communities have a lifeline to safety.”
“The I-64 Gap Widening Project will provide generational benefits to the Commonwealth’s economic health, quality of life, and our nation’s military readiness,” affirmed Congressman Rob Wittman. “This is a game-changing project for the communities surrounding Richmond and Hampton Roads.” The I-64 Gap Widening Project has been strategically divided into three segments, labeled A, B, and C, each treated as an operationally independent project. Shirley Contracting Company, LLC, in partnership with Dewberry Engineers, Inc., has been awarded the design-build contract for Segment A, to be administered by VDOT’s Richmond District. Work for Segment A is scheduled to commence in mid-November, with an expected completion date for all three segments in spring 2028.
$39 Million Infrastructure Grant
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In addition to the project approval, the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced $39,265,000 in federal funding for the City of Norfolk Economic Development Authority. This funding supports the conversion of an existing marine terminal and berth into Fairwinds Landing, an offshore wind logistics facility, crucial for supporting the CVOW project and others. The lawmakers emphasized the collaborative efforts, investments in the Port of Virginia®, and legislative initiatives that have propelled Virginia as a leader in offshore wind. The legislators said, “Virginia’s economy wins when we work together to embrace innovative technologies. We’re thrilled that the Administration approved the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind commercial project and announced significant federal funding to build an offshore wind logistics facility.”
VDOT Commissioner Stephen Brich assured, “VDOT is laserfocused on opening this corridor and delivering this and every project on-time and on-budget.” Throughout the construction phase, efforts will be made to minimize disruptions to the traveling public, ensuring the continued availability of two lanes of traffic in both directions.
As the CVOW project continues to garner support and approvals, Dominion Energy, alongside federal leaders, stands at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy transformation with Virginia becoming a leader in the industry.
As Virginia looks towards a transportation future that prioritizes efficiency, safety, and economic vitality, the I-64 Gap Widening Project stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to transformative infrastructure upgrades.
DISTRIBUTION OF COAL DUMPINGS
VESSELS BY TYPE
HAMPTON ROADS REGION (IN NET TONS OF 2,000LBS)
Source: Virginia Port Authority
**10 month 2023
Oct 2022
10 month 2022
Oct-23
YTD-23
Oct-22
YTD-22
TOTAL
2,890,821
28,968,491
2,590,006
27,119,153
Arrive
Arrive
Arrive
Arrive
**NS
956,896
10,766,929
960,189
9,969,973
Pier IX
498,344
6,592,726
599,272
6,619,017
BULK
17
152
19
198
DTA
1,435,580
11,608,836
1,030,545
10,530,164 COAL
43
405
38
327
CONTAINER
145
1393
134
1185
GENERAL
9
70
7
85
PASSENGER
9
36
7
38
RORO
5
49
5
57
TANKER
1
33
6
69
TOTAL
229
2138
216
1959
ULCV
21
150
24
102
Source: Coal figures compiled by coal terminals & third party sources **Estimated figure
PORT OF HAMPTON ROADS TEU’S TOTAL
Oct-2023
**10 month 2023
Oct-2022
10 month 2022
199,877
2,436,862
318,452
3,143,323
Source: Virginia Port Authority
CUSTOMS RECEIPTS VIRGINIA CUSTOMS DISTRICT
TOTAL
Sep 2023
**9 month 2023
Sep-2022
9 month 2022
$147,684,239
$1,365,421,459
$146,003,699
$1,140,324,222
PORT STATISTICS | OCTOBER 2023
Oct 2023
Source: Virginia Port Authority
ULTRA LARGE CONTAINER VESSELS (ULCV)
ROCKEFELLER GROUP AND THE MATAN COMPANIES TO DEVELOP LOGISTICS CENTER SUFFOLK, VA | Rockefeller Group and the Matan Companies announce the development of the Port 460 Logistics Center, a groundbreaking industrial and logistics hub in Suffolk, VA. Spanning an impressive 500 acres, this strategic venture is poised to become a pivotal player in the economic landscape. This fivemillion square foot state-of-the-art facility will be designed for heavy industrial, logistics, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and warehouse uses.
Port 460 Logistics Center, strategically located with direct access to the Port of Virginia®, is set to become a nexus connecting major population centers from the Midwest to the East Coast. With the capability to serve 75% of the U.S. population within two days, this project positions itself at the intersection of efficiency and strategic access.
Stephen Edwards, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority, welcomed the Port 460 announcement, recognizing the significant investment from Matan and Rockefeller Group in the region. He emphasized the strategic importance of logistics centers like Port 460 to meet the demands of the supply chain industry and enhance the efficiency of the Port of Virginia®. JLL has been selected as the exclusive leasing agent for Port 460 Logistics Center.
Source The Port of Virginia®
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Photo by: Independent Docking Pilots
ASSOCIATION IN ACTION Simply stated, active VMA members are Better Connected, Better Informed, and Better Represented. This segment of the Bulletin aims to provide insights into some of the ways in which the interests of VMA members were Better Represented during the previous month. September provided numerous opportunities to educate legislators about our industry and to strengthen VMA’s position with our elected leaders for the benefit of our mission and broad membership. In addition to providing tours of our port, VMA visited in their districts across the state with several of those who are expected to be members of the General Assembly when it convenes for the 2024 legislative session. Prior to kicking off the VMA23 International Trade Symposium, VMA facilitated and hosted a meeting between the Honorable Daniel Maffei, Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, and VMA member importers and exporters. These Beneficial Cargo Owners welcomed the unique opportunity to have an informal dialogue with the FMC Chairman about a variety of issues pertaining to shipping and their supply chains.
and agricultural exports, and the associated contributions to the economic wellbeing of Virginia and the nation. VMA was privileged to represent the industry at several announcements and events. These included: •
Jefferson Lab’s selection to lead the Department of Energy’s new High Performance Data Facility Hub in Newport News.
•
Governor’s Transportation Conference in Arlington.
•
Camrett Logistics’ expansion in Pulaski County.
•
Dominion Energy’s commemoration of the arrival of the first monopiles at Portsmouth Marine Terminal for the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project.
•
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Marine Mammal Conservation Planning Workshop.
•
Camrett Logistics Expansion
VMA represents the interests of our port and member businesses on several standing boards, advisory committees, and in other venues. In October, these included:
Meeting with the Honorable Daniel Maffei
VMA was pleased to host or contribute to port tours for the Sorensen Political Leadership Program and for the International Association for Programs in Agricultural Leadership (IAPAL). The Sorensen program at the University of Virginia is comprised of individuals interested in political leadership in Virginia. IAPAL is comprised of those involved in agricultural policy development from across the U.S. The tours were beneficial to each group understanding the significant role of our port in supply chains
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•
Virginia Economic Development Partnership Advisory Committee on International Trade
•
Virginia Port Authority Stakeholders Committee
•
Elizabeth River Project Board of Directors
•
Sail250© Virginia Executive Council
Photo by: Independent Docking Pilots
NEW MEMBERS BLACKBERRY RADAR Business Service Information Technology 104 Cobblepoint Way Holly Springs, NC 27540 blackberry.com h Jeffrey Allen Senior Sales Manager jeallen@blackberry.com (919) 796–3298
ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS, INC. Business Service Environmental Consulting 1412 Sachem Place, Suite 100 Charlottesville, VA 22910 h Blair Axley Project EHS Professional II baxley@envstd.com (434) 293–4039
ROANOKE VALLEY PARTNERSHIP Non-Profit Organization Government: City, State, Federal 111 Franklin Road, SE, Suite 111 Roanoke, VA 24011 h John Hull Executive Director john@roanoke.org (540) 343–1550 h Ann Blair Miller abmiller@roanoke.org (540) 655–5936
COURTNEY CULPEPPER CONSULTING Business Service Consultants 542 Fife Street Chesapeake, VA 23321 h Courtney Culpepper CEO courtney@courtneyculpepper.com (757) 237–6253
ONWARD NEW RIVER VALLEY Bronze Anchor Government: City, State, Federal 2020 Kraft Drive, Suite 200 Blacksburg, VA 24060 h Samantha Livesay Director of Business Engagement samantha@onwardnrv.org (540) 418–6924
WORLD LOGISTICS GROUP Cargo/Maritime Related Services Motor Carriers/Intermodal 3064 Yadkin Road, Suite C Chesapeake, VA 23323 worldlogisticsusa.com h Walter Singleton Agent wsingleton@worldlogisticsgroup.com (757) 485–0000
NEW ADDITIONAL REPRESENTATIVES h Yogi Singh yogi@agcold.com (804) 405–4741 AGCOLD Suffolk, VA
h Adam Braddock adam.braddock@containerport.com (901) 232–4708 CONTAINERPORT GROUP Virginia Beach, VA
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
Propeller Club - Port of Norfolk Noel Stokes • norfolkpropellerclub@gmail.com PropellerClubNorfolk.org Shenandoah Valley Traffic Club shenandoahtrafficclub@gmail.com shenandoahtrafficclub.com
Virginia Ship Repair Association Sylvia Bell • 757-233-7034 VirginiaShipRepair.org Virginia International Business Council robert.davenport@vdacs.virginia.gov vaibc.org
Tidewater Motor Truck Association Ray Jalkio • ray@servicetransfer.net tmtava.org
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P.O. Box 3487 Norfolk, Virginia 23510
P L AT I N U M A N C H O R S
GO L D E N A N C H O R S Bay Power Solutions Cargomatic CSX Transportation CV International, Inc.
Excel Truck Group Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc. Kaufman & Canoles, P.C. Seajacks UK Limited
T. Parker Host VHB Virginia Pilot Association Wood Rogers Vandeventer Black PLC
S I LV E R A N C H O R S AdvanSix Albemarle Tug Company BDO USA, LLP Capes Shipping Agencies Capital Financial Group CMA CGM (America), LLC Colliers ECPI University
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Givens Logistics, LLC Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. KITCO Fiber Optics Kokosing Industrial Kuehne + Nagel, Inc. Pender & Coward, P.C. Perdue Agribusiness, LLC Port City Transportation
SeaGate Terminals, LLC Shopify Tecnico Corporation Tidewater Staffing, Inc. TMEIC Corporation Truist Virginia Natural Gas Virginia Tech Corporation Research Center