Port Freeport opens new Gate 12 at Velasco container terminal

Port Freeport has officially opened Gate 12, a major infrastructure project designed to improve access and efficiency at the Velasco Container Terminal. The new gate became operational on August 1, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on August 14 attended by Commissioners, port leadership, and community partners.

Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission, highlighted that with the new gate in operation, the berth expansion at the container terminal complete, and the deepening of the Freeport Harbor Channel nearing completion, Port Freeport is well positioned for growth. Replacing the former Gate 14, the new facility includes two inbound and two outbound lanes, expanding capacity to handle rising truck volumes, ease congestion, and improve turn times. According to Jesse Hibbetts, Port Freeport's Director of Operations, Gate 12 is a key improvement that strengthens the operations and ensures the efficient flow of goods through the Port.

Port Freeport ranks among the leading ports in exports of crude oil and natural gas liquids, and it holds top positions in several categories: 6th in chemicals, 14th in total foreign waterborne tonnage, and 26th in containers.