On Tuesday, July 21, the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority met for its regular monthly meeting, highlighting continued progress along the Houston Ship Channel and advancing key initiatives supporting infrastructure, operations, and long-term growth of the public terminals.

During opening remarks, Acting Chairwoman Wendy Montoya Cloonan recognized Port Houston’s 2026 summer intern class of 20 students representing 10 schools.

“We are proud to contribute to workforce development in this way and applaud the work they have done so far,” said Acting Chairwoman Cloonan.

Acting Chairwoman Cloonan also provided an update on Project 12, a project that remains in the early evaluation stages following WRDA approval to study the next phase of Houston Ship Channel improvements. With the Port-led portions of Project 11 complete, the proposed effort would primarily focus on deepening the channel to improve economies of scale for many vessels, though no study timeline has been set. During the meeting, the Commission approved a cost-share agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Galveston District to begin the navigation feasibility study.

Port Houston CEO Charlie Jenkins recognized Amy Seymour, chief security and emergency operations officer, for receiving the 2026 National Maritime Safety Association Safety Innovator of the Year Award. He noted that the honor highlights the strength of Port Houston’s safety program and Seymour’s contributions to advancing it.

Additionally, the Commission awarded a construction contract to Russell Marine, LLC for the reconstruction of Wharves 5 and 6 at Barbours Cut Terminal, allowing the terminal to accommodate larger cranes and vessels.

The Commission received an update on cargo activity through June. Additional information can be found in the Houston Ship Channel Region Monthly Trade & Market Report released on July 20.

Additional Meeting Updates:

• The Commission authorized a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for emergency dredging of the Houston Ship Channel, establishing guidelines and documentation requirements for each event.
• Port Houston completed commissioning of cranes 202, 212, 221 and 222, bringing the number of ship-to-shore cranes in operation at Bayport Container Terminal to 21.
• The Bayport East End project advanced with a professional services contract with Gahagan and Bryant Associates, Inc. for waterside engineering, design and construction administration.
• Commissioners approved a professional services contract with Freese and Nichols, Inc. for environmental planning and permitting services for the Barbours Cut North expansion project. The scope includes preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement to satisfy National Environmental Policy Act requirements and support U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permitting.
• Commissioners approved amendments to Tariff Nos. 8, 14 and 15 to clarify customer payment and credit procedures and address rates for handling and storage of non-standardized container sizes.

The Port Commission will meet next on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Source: BUSINESS WIRE