The resulting master plan established a clear, executable framework for phased development, outlining berth configurations, terminal layout, infrastructure requirements and cargo handling systems to accommodate a multipurpose facility (see image at left). Our construction cost estimates supported international financing from public and private sources.

Today, more than a decade after the terminal's 2015 inauguration, Puerto Bahía stands as one of Colombia's most modern and capable port facilities. Its current operations include storage of 2.4 million barrels of crude oil, two export berths for that oil and the handling of barges plying the local canal and river system, along with general cargo transshipment and storage. The port also maintains business agreements with internationally recognized automobile manufacturers including Ford, General Motors, Porsche, Honda and Volkswagen.

The facility continues to grow, with future expansion plans in development to add an onshore bi-directional pipeline from a regional refinery and a massive refrigerated facility that will establish the port as a major liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) import center

The success of Puerto Bahía is a direct reflection of what a well-executed master plan can accomplish.

Why engage NELSON early?

Port development projects are complex undertakings. Decisions made during the feasibility and planning stages have lasting consequences for project cost, schedule and long-term operational performance. Engaging an experienced engineering partner early in that process can mean the difference between a plan that gets built and one that never moves forward.

NELSON's team brings the following capabilities to deliver results that hold up over time:

• Feasibility analysis: Evaluation of site conditions, operational requirements and development scenarios to support informed decision-making.
• Master planning: Coordinated layout and phasing strategies that align with operational goals and investment parameters.
• Detailed engineering design: Structural, civil, mechanical and electrical design developed to support construction.
• Construction administration: Onsite oversight and quality control to ensure the project is built as designed and within budget.

Our experience with marine and waterfront facilities spans more than half a century, including the design of major wharf structures on the Mississippi River and detailed design and feasibility studies for locations worldwide. That breadth of experience gives NELSON the perspective to anticipate challenges, resolve conflicts early and keep projects on track.

Let us help you plan your work!

If you are in the early stages of evaluating a port development, expansion or rehabilitation, now is the time to engage NELSON. Early involvement allows our team to shape the feasibility study, guide site selection and establish a master plan framework that will serve your project from the first schematic through final construction.

Contact Tom Wells at tom.wells@wsnelson.com or Marcel Danos at marcel.danos@wsnelson.com.