Category 7

Special Projects

HONOR AWARD

Roll On Roll Off Platform, Locust Point Marine Terminal

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT) partnered with the Maryland Port Administration (MPA) and BalTerm, LLP to design a new roll-on roll-off (RORO) platform for BalTerm (Baltimore Forest Products Terminals), a major tenant utilizing the South Locust Point Marine Terminal at the Port of Baltimore. This fast-tracked special project allows BalTerm and the Port to stay competitive in their respective industries, providing a win-win for client and tenant. A RORO platform is beneficial to the specialized needs of the paper industry, allowing uniquely designed ships to dock adjacent to the pier and lower a stern ramp onto the platform. This permits high capacity trailers to enter the ship’s hull to retrieve the three-ton rolls of paper. The MPA tenant lease required the platform be ready for use in time for the first ship’s arrival scheduled for May 5, 2007. Prior to the platform completion, BalTerm was forced to unload the ships via a starboard-side elevator and lift trucks, which was inefficient in terms of both time and money. Challenged with a severe time constraint, JMT accomplished the design in less than six months, including underwater inspections, thorough structural analysis of berthing forces and meeting the operational needs of the trailers. Construction began on the project in October 2006 and was completed in mid-April 2007, in time for the arrival of the first shipment. The 92 feet by 110 feet RORO platform allows the Port of Baltimore to remain the largest on the East Coast in paper handling, continue to meet the needs of the port industry, and help ensure the economic future of the City of Baltimore. Since the completed construction, BalTerm has significantly increased unloading efficiency and greatly reduced operating costs, resulting in increased paper tonnage through the Port of Baltimore. This JMT project increased the Port’s competitive advantage within the paper distribution industry, assisting in the economic growth of the State of Maryland.