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Superior-Duluth Port Expansion Cruising Ahead

Construction Will Greatly Increase Cargo Storage Space, Port Official Says

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Photo: Pete Markham (CC-BY-SA)

A nearly $17.4 million project to rebuild and expand cargo docks in the Duluth-Superior port is moving forward.

Jim Sharrow, Duluth Seaway Port Authority facilities manager, said it’s the largest construction project there since 1959. The Port Authority approved a $14.5 million contract with Black River Falls-based Lunda Construction. Sharrow said docks at the Garfield Pier will be upgraded to increase cargo storage.

“It brings together rail, truck and vessel,” he said. “We want to be able to serve the regional community as well as we can for these break bulk cargoes.”

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Sharrow said the project will more than double storage space for wind turbines, construction materials and clay at the 28-acre site.

“This construction project will provide for growth and expansion in those activities,” he said.

Federal and Minnesota grants are funding a majority of the project. The Duluth Seaway Port Authority will throw in around $3.7 million. Sharrow said construction should wrap up in September 2016.

Around 37.5 million tons of cargo moved through the Twin Ports last year.