Virginia Maritime Bulletin, Vol 88, No. 4

HRBT EXPANSION MARKS BREAKTHROUGH AS BORING MACHINE COMPLETES FIRST NEW TUNNEL

HAMPTON, VA | The VMA celebrates a milestone break through of the HRBT expansion project. The 430-foot-long tunnel boring machine — named Mary — breaks through the north end of the first 8,000 foot tunnel under Hampton Roads.

Photo by: WAVY TV

Over the next five months, Mary will navigate the world’s longest three-point turn. Afterwards, she’ll dig her way back to the Norfolk side, leaving two new tunnels to double the HRBT’s capacity once all the bridge and road work is finished. The Virginia Department of Transportation expects this work to continue until at least the fall of 2026.

The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) has a long history, which date backs to the original Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT), advocating for increased transportation capacity and the necessary funding. VMA has been extensively engaged in planning and ensuring project requirements do not disrupt navigation. Moreover, we have coordinated closely with the 55foot deepening project and have seen significant participation from many of our members in the project’s execution. We are thrilled to mark this milestone.

VMA MEMBERS KEEP CARGO FLOWING AFTER BALTIMORE BRIDGE COLLAPSE

NORFOLK, VA |After the impact from a cargo vessel collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge and closed the Baltimore harbor on March 26, members of the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) have swiftly mobilized to aid in recovery efforts and accommodate diverted cargo. The collaborative response from various stakeholders demonstrates resilience and solidarity within the maritime industry.

Crofton promptly dispatched equipment to aid in the recovery process, showcasing the industry’s readiness to respond to emergencies.

“The Voice of Port Industries”

Photo courtesy of Century Express Virginia

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

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

@VAmaritime Contact jdeason@vamaritime.com to Advertise in the Next

SCHOOL COUNSELORS RECEIVE TOOLS TO PROMOTE MARITIME CAREERS

NORFOLK, VA | More than 80 school counselors and career and technical education coaches attended a panel discussion and received the new VMA Maritime Career Guide during four outreach sessions hosted April 9-12 in Newport News and Norfolk by the Virginia Maritime Association’s Education and Training Committee. This effort by the VMA was designed to develop meaningful partnerships with area educators and counselors so they can share the vast array of opportunities available in the maritime and supply chain logistics industry with their students and families.

Industry leaders from several VMA member businesses participated in the panel sessions to share information about career opportunities in marine terminal operations, shipbuilding and ship repair, vessel operations, offshore wind, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, trucking, warehousing and distribution, as well as with the U.S. Coast Guard and Virginia Port Authority. The message from these leaders was clear: they need employees and offer the opportunities to earn a good living.

Deborah Gholson, VMA Board Member and Gas Business Development Manager for Berkshire Hathaway Energy GT&S, chaired this effort stating, “The maritime industry faces significant workforce challenges in the Hampton Roads region and throughout the Commonwealth. School counselors, students and parents are hungry to find rewarding career opportunities regardless of whether a student wants to attend college. The

VMA believes it is immensely important to connect educational resources with maritime businesses to grow and retain a talented workforce in Virginia. This is why we are working to build a program designed to develop and nurture positive partnerships for the success of all Virginia students and the maritime industry. Each session created amazing energy and excitement, and we look forward to working together in the future to achieve our shared goals.”

A recent study by the Mason School of Business at William and Mary reveals that one in five jobs in Virginia are linked to maritime and supply chain logistics. Since 2013, the number of skilled workers handling cargo was up 54% and industry paychecks far exceed median wages for all of Virgina. While some jobs in the industry require a 4-year college degree and above, the industry has a wide variety of job opportunities that have much shorter training and education requirements and offer on-the-job training, which allows employees to earn income while pursuing educational opportunities.

“Hampton Roads is actually an ocean of opportunity for our youth, veterans, and career switchers. Check the want ads. There are a multitude of openings in maritime and logistics industries, and educational institutions are scaling up certification and degree granting programs,” says David White, executive director of Virginia Maritime Association. “For our youth, it all starts with creating the awareness about the opportunities that exist in their own backyard. This is why we were so happy to hear the questions and see the level of interest from the school counselors and career and technical education coaches who attended. They do such important work with students and parents, and we look forward to building on this relationship with them.”

Courtney Gonzalez-Vega, Coordinator of Science - Grades K-12 at York County School Division shared, “Attending the Virginia Maritime Association event was a valuable experience, with the

CARGO FLOWING CONT.

The Virginia Port Authority (VPA) could process anywhere from 18,000 to 20,000 rerouted containers this month offering crucial support to ensure continuity in supply chains and minimize disruptions to cargo flow.

Norfolk Southern and CSX have devised workarounds to keep containers, coal, and other commodities moving through Virginia’s ports and other alternative gateways that otherwise would have moved through Baltimore, highlighting the industry’s resilience in finding alternative routes.

Virginia coal and other bulk terminals are accommodating ships originally bound for Baltimore, loading coal and unloading fertilizer and other cargoes, facilitating uninterrupted trade. Several ships are taking bunkers in Virginia instead of Baltimore.

Virginia trucking companies have joined forces to tackle shipping challenges, introducing innovative solutions like Evans Delivery Company’s “Drop Lot” concept situated 39 miles north of Richmond on Interstate 95, which facilitates seamless cargo transfers between Baltimore and Norfolk drivers, thus optimizing deliveries to the Port of Virginia®. VMA member SPLICE is providing its integrated yard management system

MARITIME CAREERS CONT.

panel discussion providing industry insights and fostering meaningful connections within the maritime community. Furthermore, the event emphasized the wide range of exciting job possibilities within maritime businesses, providing valuable guidance for students as they plan their careers after graduation.”

To provide easy access to this vast array of opportunities to school counselors, students, and parents, the VMA developed a Maritime Career Guide, which offers introductory information on the maritime and supply chain logistics industry as well as detailed information on career pathways and educational opportunities available in the sector. In addition, the VMA created company profiles included in the Guide with direct links and information about entry-level positions available now and in the near future from its members. The Guide is available at

for tracking inventory in the drop lot Collaborative efforts, including support from VMA member The Turman Group, have further bolstered operational efficiency. Meanwhile, Century Express Virginia (pictured) is among the many motor carriers proactively addressing hurdles faced by truckers from both Virginia and Maryland by providing essential drayage services to ensure uninterrupted freight movement. Baltimore truckers have lauded the ease of The Port of Virginia’s® ProPass system for tracking, tracing, and making port reservations, underscoring the adaptability and cooperation within the trucking community, which highlight the industry’s resilience in navigating logistical challenges. The International Longshoremen’s Association has affirmed the readiness of Hampton Roads ILA workforce to handle the increased workload caused by diversions, acknowledging the additional efforts required due to the influx of containers.

In response to the crisis, Carnival Cruise Lines has temporarily relocated operations from Baltimore to Norfolk. Nauticus has welcomed diverting cruise ships from Baltimore, further underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships during times of crisis. CP&O is helping unload baggage and stock stores on the diverted cruises.

CP&O has also handled bulldozers, backhoes and other construction equipment diverted from Baltimore.

David White, executive director of the Virginia Maritime Association, commended the industry’s nimbleness and responsiveness, highlighting the collective effort.

“As recovery efforts continue, VMA members have been innovative and steadfast in their determination to keep goods flowing and supply chains functioning. Once again, our Virginia’s maritime and logistics businesses are proving their superior capabilities and abilities to adapt and meet the challenges at hand.”

VAmaritime.com under the resources tab and will be updated regularly.

Photo courtesy of Century Express Virginia

DISTRIBUTION OF COAL DUMPINGS

PORT OF HAMPTON ROADS TEU’S

Source: Virginia Port Authority

CUSTOMS RECEIPTS

VIRGINIA CUSTOMS DISTRICT

REGISTER TODAY FOR VMA24 AND INTERNATIONAL BULK CONFERENCE

NORFOLK, VA |Registration is open for VMA24 and the International Bulk Conference as well as the Golf Open and Annual Maritime Banquet, hosted by Virginia Maritime Association. These events will be held on October 8-10, 2024, in Norfolk, VA. Don’t miss Early Bird registration and shippers/BCO can take advantage of a heavily discounted ticket of $200.

Celebrating its 21st year, the VMA’s International Trade Symposium has become well-known as a boutique, attendee-curated event tailored to connecting, discussing ideas, and benefiting from shared experiences. As the East Coast’s premier conference for shipping, ports, logistics, and trade, you’ll hear industry leaders discuss national-level content in an accessible, intimate location, sharing meaningful insights and engaging in authentic discussions. The inaugural International Bulk Conference will tackle both challenges and opportunities in the bulk trade.

Have a quiet conversation with a client or catch up with a colleague; make new connections during lively social events; enjoy fine dining at the 104th Annual Maritime Banquet; or simply enjoy the southern hospitality that Norfolk, Virginia, offers in the heart of the fastest growing port in the nation. “Harness the New Normal” and register today.

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.

The 2024 regular legislative session of the Virginia General Assembly adjourned March 9. Governor Youngkin would have through April 8 to act on more than 1,000 bills approved by the General Assembly, including the budgets, with the General Assembly scheduled to reconvene April 17 to act on any legislation vetoed or amended by the Governor. VMA’s legislative agenda included over 40 bills and budget proposals which fared well overall; emphasizing continued investment and improvements in workforce development, freight transportation, economic development, business ready sites, and energy.

VMA was privileged to make a presentation to the Board of Directors of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the state’s leading economic development entity. The presentation covered the extent to which Virginia’s economic fortunes are influenced by industrial maritime and freight logistics business activities. It was emphasized that attracting new business and helping existing companies increase their trade activities will

VMA NEW MEMBERS

METROPOLITAN

SOLUTIONS GROUP

Business Service

Environmental Engineers/ Scientists and Planners 1420 Chestnut Street Portsmouth, VA 23704 metrosolutonsusa.com

h Dennis Dorning

VP Sales & Marketing ddorning@ metrosolutionsusa.com (877) 844–0021

THAYERMAHAN, INC.

Moving Cargo/Maritime Related Renewable Energy 160 Newtown Road Suite 204 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 thayermahan.com

h Maggie Hine

Director of Logistics & Environmental Compliance mhine@thayermahan.com (860) 785–9994

h Richard Hine

President rhine@thayermahan.com (540) 383–2000

require business-ready sites and connecting infrastructure, welcoming localities with favorable zoning, and continued implementation of the International Trade Plan.

The National Waterways Conference works at the federal level to advocate in favor of national policy and laws that recognize the vital importance of America’s water resources infrastructure, seeking a balance between economic and human needs and environmental and ecological considerations. As a longstanding member, VMA participated in the NWC’s annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC.

As offshore wind projects progress, more attention is being given to the impacts of the power transmission cables that will bring electricity ashore. Recognized for the collaborative approach VMA has successfully employed to bring parties together to resolve navigational conflicts, the VMA was asked to present at the Mid-Atlantic Offshore Wind Transmission Workshop. Discussions on the same subject were had with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding permitting for the cables to come ashore from the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project.

VMA was pleased to have been included with other member companies in the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance’s Workforce Solutions Summit. The Honorable Kathy Byron, Deputy Director for External Affairs, Virginia Department of Workforce Development and Advancement featured the opportunities for companies to utilize the Virginia Works program to help meet their employment needs.

UNITED SITE SERVICES

Business Service Refuse and Recycling Collection unitedsiteservices.com

h Kyle Jeter

Territory Account Manager kyle.jeter@unitedsiteservices.com (948) 205–1677

h Lauren Lynn

Territory Account Manager lauren.lynn@unitedsiteservices.com (757) 880–4089

h Joe Dargin*

Business Development Manager joe.dargin@unitedsiteservices.com (757) 582–7407

ADDITIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

h Tammy Perry

Sales Representative

tperry@linkbelt.com (757) 560–6287

LINKBELT MID ATLANTIC Chesapeake, VA

h Sean Magness*

Assistant Vice President of Sales smagness@cornerstone-systems.com (703) 431–6775

CORNERSTONE SYSTEMS Portsmouth, VA

*Young Maritime Professional

FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION SOLICITS FURTHER INPUT ON CONTAINER DATA SHARING MANDATES

WASHINGTON, DC |The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is inviting public comments on issues concerning maritime data accuracy. This move is part of their ongoing efforts to gather insights for potential future FMC actions, with a specific emphasis on data concerning containers passing through marine terminals. The

FMC is particularly interested in receiving feedback on the types of data exchanged between transportation service providers and importers/exporters. Additionally, they are seeking input on how alterations to this data are communicated, as well as pinpointing areas where communication breakdowns or inaccuracies in information transmission are most prevalent.

The comment period ends on June 17, 2024. To submit a formal comment here: https://www.federalregister.gov/ documents/2024/04/16/2024-07977/request-for-information

VMA PAC MARKS 25 YEARS OF ADVOCACY AT THE VMA GOLF CLASSIC

NORFOLK, VA | On April 19, 2024, VMA celebrated 25 years of the VMA PAC at the sold-out VMA Golf Classic at Cedar Point Country Club.

Since 2000, the VMA PAC has worked on behalf of our maritime industry to address issues with the Virginia General Assembly and legislators. VMA established the Virginia Maritime Association Political Action Committee (VMA PAC), to support candidates that understand the importance of our maritime industry in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The VMA PAC is a key part of the VMA efforts each year to support candidates that appreciate the issues that directly affect businesses with a stake in Virginia’s ports and the wellbeing of the maritime industry. It is critical that we elect leaders that support additional channel deepening, continued investment in business ready sites and

freight infrastructure, workforce, business incentives, and other issues that determine the success of our Port.

Golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the course supporting the PAC. Congratulations to the winning team from Givens Logistics. Thank you to our sponsors Bay Power Solutions, CP&O, Hampton Roads Shipping Association, Century Express Virginia, CV International, Forvis, Givens Logistics, McAllister Towing, Virginia Pilot Association, WildCat Propellers, Capes Shipping Agencies, Cornerstone Systems, Intracoastal Marine, and Kemper Consulting, and all those supporting the PAC! To learn more or donate, vist: VAmaritime.com/VMAPAC. View all VMA Golf Classic photos here: https://zurl.co/UZTV

Photo by: Independent Docking

P.O. Box 3487

Norfolk, Virginia 23510

PLATINUM ANCHORS

Bay Power Solutions

Cadeler AS

CIE Manufacturing

Colliers

CSX Transportation

AdvanSix

Amazon

BDO USA, LLP

Capes Shipping Agencies

CMA CGM (America), LLC

Coastal Design & Construction, Inc.

ECPI University

FORVIS

PRESORTED STANDARD

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

NORFOLK, VA

PERMIT NO. 1930

GOLDEN ANCHORS

CV International, Inc.

Excel Truck Group

Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.

Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.

T. Parker Host

SILVER ANCHORS

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

VHB

Virginia Pilot Association

Wood Rogers Vandeventer Black PLC

SeaGate Terminals, LLC

Tecnico Corporation

TMEIC Corporation

Truist

Virginia Natural Gas

Virginia Tech Corporation Research Center