'These numbers demonstrate why the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore is among the top ports in the nation,' said John D. Porcari, Acting Secretary for the Maryland Department of Transportation. 'They validate the fact that we have a great labor force and excellent facilities. With these fundamentals in place, we will continue to draw business to Baltimore and maintain the positive momentum now underway.'
Currently, the Port of Baltimore is ranked 13th for overall tonnage and 12th for value of cargo out of 361 ports in America. In 2005, the Port's foreign cargo increased for the fourth consecutive year with a total of 32.4 million tons.
'Last year's average vessel container moves per hour was approximately 35,' said David Thomas, MPA Director of Operations. 'This positive trend line is just another testament to the outstanding team of professionals who operate our terminals, including the ILA work-force, our MPA crane maintenance personnel and P&O Ports NA who are responsible for managing the ship side operation.' Activities at the Port of Baltimore generate over 42,000 direct and indirect jobs. It is the number one port on the East Coast for handling roll-on/roll-off cargo; it is also and number one for importing trucks and forest products.