The Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission (HCPHC) announced March 6 the completion of the Port Bienville Railroad Storage Yard in Bay St. Louis, Miss. This $6 million investment, funded by the Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program, “represents a major milestone for the Port and the region,” according to HCPHC.
“This project represents a major step forward, delivering improved safety, greater efficiency, and increased capacity. By utilizing steel ties designed for a 50-year lifespan, we’re also committing to substantial long-term maintenance cost reductions,” said Port Director of Port Bienville Industrial Park Shane LaFontaine.
The project, which broke ground in November 2023, has expanded the existing rail line with the addition of a rail sidetrack and storage yard track ladders, increasing the Port’s capacity by 150 car spaces to a total of 610 cars. This expansion involves 12,173 square feet of additional storage track, 9 turnouts, 6,087 steel ties, and 9,739 tons of ballast.
Key benefits of the expansion include:
- “Increased Capacity: The 33% increase in storage capacity enables HCPHC to safely manage current operations and meet the growing demand for storage.
- “Enhanced Efficiency: Streamlined rail operations and reduced congestion will improve overall efficiency.
- “Improved Safety: The project enhances safety conditions for workers and equipment.
- “Economic Growth: The expanded rail capacity allows existing industries to enhance railcar storage for raw materials and finished products, strengthening our tenant’s capabilities and production on site.”
“After recommendations for expanded railcar capacity for nearly 15 years, we are glad Port Bienville can offer this additional capacity for our tenants, strengthening each site’s ability to stabilize the supply chain and increase production,” said HCPHC Executive Director Blaine LaFontaine.
