Jacobs Secures Contract for Major Rail Capacity Expansion at Port of Long Beach

Jacobs to Support Rail Expansion at Port of Long Beach

In an exciting development for transportation and logistics, Jacobs (NYSE: J) has recently secured a contract for construction management concerning the Port of Long Beach's Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility program. This initiative is part of a broader $2.2 billion effort aimed at optimizing cargo movement, minimizing environmental impacts, and bolstering regional economic growth.

The project, which will be executed over the next few years, aims to modernize the existing rail yard, effectively transforming it into a cutting-edge facility. The expansion will increase the size of the rail yard from 82 acres to 171 acres, more than tripling the port's on-dock rail capacity. Once completed, the facility will be capable of handling an impressive 4.7 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually, a significant boost to the Port’s operational capacity.

In addition to enhancing cargo capacity, this expansion aims to alleviate truck traffic significantly, thereby reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality in the surrounding communities. "As one of the busiest ports in the United States and a critical gateway for international trade, the Port of Long Beach plays a pivotal role in the economy," remarked Eva Wood, Executive Vice President at Jacobs. She emphasized that Jacobs' extensive experience in large-scale infrastructure management will facilitate faster cargo movement and reduce shipping costs while fostering a more resilient supply chain.

The Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility is projected to be completed by 2032. This overhaul is not merely about industrial efficiency; it is also poised to provide substantial community advantages, including the creation of over 1,000 local jobs and support for health and environmental initiatives in the area. Enhancing on-dock rail capacity is a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of cargo transportation, aligning with the Port's sustainability goals.

Jacobs is recognized for its excellence in managing complicated infrastructure projects, having previously worked on significant initiatives such as the Port of San Francisco Waterfront Resilience Program and the award-winning Amrun Chith Export Facility in Queensland. The company's capability to oversee multiple projects concurrently showcases its readiness to tackle the challenges associated with the Pier B expansion, which involves managing ten separate construction contracts.

Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, expressed enthusiasm over the partnership with Jacobs, stating, "The Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility embodies our core values—enabling greater cargo movement through our terminals while minimizing community impacts. This is a monumental project, and Jacobs' expertise makes them an ideal partner to help us manage the anticipated workload."

As Jacobs moves forward, the company remains committed to innovation and sustainable development. With annual revenues nearing $12 billion, Jacobs employs around 45,000 people and provides comprehensive services across numerous sectors, including advanced manufacturing, energy, transportation, and environmental solutions. Their vision emphasizes creating a more connected and sustainable future through effective project delivery and impact.

As stakeholders and community members look toward the completion of the Pier B facility, it is clear that significant developments in rail infrastructure will have lasting benefits for the Port of Long Beach and its associated communities. This project not only reflects Jacobs' commitment to improving regional logistics but also signals a broader commitment to embracing sustainable practices and enhancing economic opportunity in the area. For more details on Jacobs and its initiatives, visit jacobs.com or engage with them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.