Vancouver, Wash.-based
Tidewater Transportation and Terminals, the largest barge transportation and
termina network on the Columbia-Snake River system, reports that it has
finalized a contract with Portland, Oregon-based Gunderson Marine & Iron,
for the construction of four new liquid refined product barges. It says that the strategic investment reinforces
the company’s commitment to providing safe, efficient, and environmentally
responsible marine transportation solutions for the Pacific Northwest.
Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, the
state-of-the-art barges will measure 272 feet long, 42 feet wide, and 18 feet 6
inches deep, with a capacity of 20,000 barrels. Designed and constructed for
service on the Columbia Snake River System, these inland liquid tank barges
will be certified by the United States Coast Guard and comply with OPA 90
requirements. The first two barges are scheduled for delivery in May and July
2026, with the remaining two arriving in November 2026 and February 2027. “This investment is a testament to our
dedication to meeting the growing needs of our customers and the communities we
serve,” said Johan Sperling, president and CEO of Tidewater. “By partnering
with Gunderson Marine and Iron, we are not only strengthening our fleet but
also supporting a valued local business that shares our commitment to quality
and innovation.”
“We are excited about this next phase of
Tidewater’s fleet modernization,” said Ullico
Infrastructure Fund portfolio manager Jeff Murphy. “These new
barges will bolster our ability to transport vital energy products safely and
efficiently while ensuring we continue to meet the highest operational and
environmental standards.”
“We are honored to
partner with Tidewater on this important project,” said Dee Burch, president of Gunderson Marine and Iron. “This contract is a win for our workforce and the
regional economy. We look forward to delivering high-quality barges that will
serve Tidewater and its customers for decades to come.”