Posted on November 18, 2024
The Port NOLA Board Chairman delivered the State of the Port Address Friday during the 36th annual event.
Michael A. Thomas highlighted the advancements across four lines of business and emphasized the notable progress in the development of the Louisiana International Terminal and substantial investments.
“As we chart our course, strategic coordination among Louisiana ports and businesses is critical for solidifying our future on a global scale,” Thomas said. “We must move beyond the parochial, unilateral decision-making that has only led to missed opportunities in the past and work together to move Louisiana onward and forward.
In his speech, Thomas also talked about change in leadership and direction at Port NOLA and NOPB and noted each development resonated through the global supply chain, shaping the environment in which the maritime industry must operate.
“By investing in training programs, mentorship initiatives, and more inclusive policies, we can cultivate a workforce that reflects the richness of our global community and prepares us to tackle the challenges of tomorrow,” Thomas said.
He also talked about the importance of remaining vigilant, adaptive and proactive in navigating dynamic currents.
According to Thomas, Port NOLA is a strong advocate for public investments that will strengthen the port and waterway.
He highlighted the leadership of the Port of Greater Baton Rouge, Port of South Louisiana, Port of New Orleans, St. Bernard Port, Harbor and Terminal District and Plaquemines Port, Harbor and Terminal District.
“Driving economic prosperity by maximizing the flow of international trade and commerce begins with collaboration,” Thomas said. “Collaboration leads to innovation, which leads to opportunity, which will lead to the Louisiana we all envision in the future.”
Thomas spoke about the investments in the ports over the last five years, including more than $300 million to support and attract customers.
This included $140 million investment to install four new ship-to-shore gantry cranes, which increased the annual terminal capacity, $120 million to rehabilitate breakbulk terminals bridges and industrial properties to attract a more diverse cargo customers and bring relief to commuters with less bridge downtime.
He also talked about the $25 million for paving at the Nashville and Napoleon terminals to ensure that Port NOLA can continue to efficiently serve container, breakbulk and project cargo for decades to come.
According to Thomas, this was a record-breaking year for the cruise business with nearly 1.3 million cruise passengers with cruises continuing their partnerships with the port including Carnival committed for at least five more years of two year-round vessels and celebrated its seven millionth traveler from Port NOLA.
The Norwegian Cruise being renewed for five more years, Disney Cruise returning, Royal Caribbean returning with a new vessel and the river cruises continuing to excel with American Cruise lines and Viking Cruises.
“And with New Orleans as the host of Super Bowl LIX on Feb. 9, 2025, the Crescent City and Port NOLA’s cruise offerings will be spotlighted for a global audience,” Thomas said.
Thomas finished his address by speaking on 2025 and stating that it will be the “year of building and investing in a trade-based economy.
“We will cultivate stronger relationships and enhance collaboration with all those who work on the river, creating a cohesive maritime industry ecosystem. We will continue to work alongside LED, GNO Inc., the New Orleans Business Alliance, JEDCO, the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation and other partners to grow business in our region,” Thomas said. “We will continue to invest in educational programs that serve as catalysts for robust careers. We will create thousands of well-paying jobs. We will foster long-term economic growth for our region and state. Together, we will solidify Louisiana’s position as the next-generation leader in global trade. We will deliver Louisiana’s future together.”
