BND, SHSU Partner to Enhance Security

At a regular Board Meeting held Feb. 21, the Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners approved a five-year memorandum of understanding between Sam Houston State University College of Criminal Justice Institute for Homeland Security for education and training services focused on Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP). 

CIP includes proactive activities for protecting critical infrastructures such as the people, physical entities, and cyber systems that are necessary for national security, economic stability, and public safety. 

As the leading maritime port for the Rio Grande Valley, the Port of Brownsville is a critical infrastructure asset vital in the facilitation of global trade. Activity at the port is responsible for adding more than $2 billion to the regional economy, $3 billion to the Texas economy, and the creation of more than 51,000 jobs statewide.

The training program aims to provide executive level training to protect critical infrastructure with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance security risk management operations and understand compliance requirements.

"The Port of Brownsville’s commitment to safety and security cannot be overstated. With over 270 companies at the port relying on the integrity of our operations, we strive to meet the highest standards," said Interim Port Director and CEO William Dietrich. "We are proud to partner with Sam Houston State University College of Criminal Justice Institute for Homeland Security to bring these training opportunities to our community so that we may continue to provide essential security services in a robust business environment without interruption."

Port Talk: Attracting Investments

Learn how the Port that Works is shaping the future of our economy. Listen to Interim Port Director and CEO William Dietrich detail the impact of Texas A&M's $30 million advanced manufacturing training facility at the port, prospective companies for the business park, and more.

BRG Celebrates 40th Anniversary

The Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railway (BRG) commemorated 40 years of service to the Port of Brownsville in February. First formed in 1984 by the Brownsville Navigation District, the BRG provides consistent, safe and reliable service to Port of Brownsville users.

"On this landmark 40th anniversary of the Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railway, we pause to honor our rich history of growth, resilience, and partnership," said BRG President Shariff Gonnella. "This anniversary serves as a pivotal moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our team, the trust of our partners, and the support of our community."

From its modest beginnings with 17 employees, four locomotives, and 33 miles of track, BRG has experienced remarkable growth and success over the past four decades. In 2023, the BRG reported a record of more than 80,000 carloads. Top commodities moved by the BRG include steel, wind energy components, refined petroleum products, among other commodities.

"We are celebrating not just a 40-year milestone but also the beginning of the next chapter in BRG’s history, symbolizing a renewed commitment and vision for the future," said Gonnella.

Since 2014, OmniTRAX, Inc., under agreement with the Port of Brownsville, has managed the BRG enhancing services for port rail users and connecting shippers and the port with three Class 1 railroads for access across North America.

The Port of Brownsville's float travels along Brownsville's historic Elizabeth Street during the Grand International Parade held Saturday, March 2.

Brownsville Navigation District Chairman Esteban Guerra and Commissioner John Reed alongside port staff greet crowds during the Charro Days Illuminated Parade held Friday, March 1.

More Than Amigos

The Port of Brownsville joined in the festivities of Charro Days, a week-long celebration honoring the region's Mexican heritage and strengthening the bonds between the sister cities of Brownsville and Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico.



Through annual events like Charro Days and Sombrero Festival, the port proudly demonstrates its commitment to engaging with and supporting the local community for a better quality of life. 

PORT OF BROWNSVILLE ADMINISTRATION

William Dietrich

Interim Port Director & CEO

Port Administration

Contact Us:

Ph: 956.831.4592 / 800.378.5395

Fax: 956.831.5006

www.portofbrownsville.com

March 8

International Women’s Day

March 10

Daylight Saving Time Begins

March 11-15

Spring Break

March 19

First Day of Spring

March 20

BND Board Meeting 

March 29

Good Friday- Port Offices Closed

April 3

BND Board Meeting

April 17

BND Board Meeting

April 22

Early Voting Begins

Gulf LNG Tugs of Texas Selected by Texas LNG

Editor's Note: This article was originally featured at www.marinelink.com

Gulf LNG Tugs of Texas has been selected to provide towage services for the proposed Texas LNG export terminal to be constructed in the Port of Brownsville.

Gulf LNG Tugs will build, deliver and operate tugboats under a long term agreement to assist LNG carriers arriving at the facility.



The proposed facility will be built on a 625-acre site on the Port of Brownsville’s north shore, which offers access to a deep-water ship channel about one hour’s voyage from the Gulf of Mexico.

February 2024 Port Matters Issue



January 2024 Port Matters Issue

December 2023 Port Matters Issue