Mayor Gerald D. Jennings recently announced the start of a $7.6 million construction project to replace some 500 feet of the Port of Albany’s antiquated wharf system, first build in the late 1920’s.

“This is a major step forward in moving our Port into the 21st century,” said Mayor Jennings. “Ships are larger and cargo is heavier than it was back when the Port of Albany was first constructed, placing a tremendous strain on the old wooden wharf system. This important project will help us continue to grow our business.”

The competitively bid project was warded to the low bidder, C.D> Perry & Sons of Troy, New York. The nearly 80-year-old timber piles, fender system, and supporting structures will be removed and replaced with modern steel piles, driven into bedrock, and a new fender system with a concrete and asphalt platform, as well as new rail lines.

“Business is booming at the Port of Albany,” said Robert F. Cross, Chairman of the Albany Port District Commission. “Tonnage is up, longshore labor hours are up and, last year, we recorded the highest revenue in the history of the Port. As business increases, we need to position the Port for continued future growth.

“Some of the heavy lift cargo such as generators routinely shipped out of the Port weight in excess of 1 million pounds each, which places a tremendous strain on the aging wharf system,” Mayor Jennings noted. “Once this project is complete, the Port will be able to accommodate three additionally heavy lift ships which currently can only dock on the newer sections of the wharf.”

Mayor Jennings applauded the State of New York for providing funding for this project. “As we continue to work together at all levels of government for the benefit of our great Port, we should be mindful that the work we are doing today will leave an important legacy for tomorrow, laying a solid foundation for an even more prosperous and bustling Port of Albany in the years ahead.”