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State Hands Port Check for Crane by Mitch Lies Capital Press, July 21, 2006

Gov. Ted Kulongoski handed the Port of Portland a $7.5 million check on July 19 to go toward the purchase of a fourth Post-Panamax crane in a move designed to improve the port's competitive position in what he called an expanding global marketplace.

"We must be able to export goods - from agriculture to high technology - quickly and efficiently," Kulongoski said in a ceremony at the port's Terminal 6.

The $7.5 million is part of $100 million Oregon lawmakers dedicated toward improving the state's transportation infrastructure as part of the governor's Connect Oregon initiative.

Kulongoski said at the ceremony he will seek another $100 million next session.

The program is funded by lottery-backed bonds.

The port currently has three Post-Panamax cranes - including one just now preparing to begin operation - and five Panamax cranes.

"These cranes allow farmers from all over the state to compete in the global marketplace," said Steve Corey, a Port of Portland commissioner from Pendleton.

Bill Wyatt, executive director of the port, added, "This fourth crane will play an important role in helping us attract and retain container shipping lines."

The Post-Panamax cranes, which cost approximately $10 million to construct and erect, are as tall as a 16-story building and as wide as two city blocks, allowing them to reach above and across today's taller and wider container ships.

Port officials hope to have the fourth crane operational in 2008.