The US Army Corps of Engineers expects the project will create over 6,000 jobs during peak construction and more than 800 permanent full-time positions. Credit: Port of Brownsville.

The Port of Brownsville, in collaboration with the Brownsville Navigation District and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), has launched phase two of the Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project.

This initiative will deepen the channel from 42ft to 52ft, allowing larger commercial vessels to navigate South Texas waters.

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The USACE estimates the project will generate over 6,000 jobs at peak construction and create more than 800 permanent full-time positions.

Environmental considerations have been factored into the project, with an assessment indicating no expected detrimental effects on aquatic environments or critical habitats, according to the port.

Brownsville Navigation District chairman Esteban Guerra said: “The Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project is paramount to the Port of Brownsville’s continued success. We are moving forward to enhance the navigational safety of the channel while securing our standing in the global marketplace.”

Funding for the channel deepening comes through a public-private partnership, involving the USACE, the Port of Brownsville, and NextDecade.

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NextDecade has committed $400m for the first phase, with the second phase, costing $139.5m, being supported by both federal funding and contributions from the Port of Brownsville.

The second phase started last year, focusing on dredged material placement area improvements.

Callan Marine was awarded a $104m contract for this phase, tasked with removing approximately seven million cubic yards of material. The project is expected to be completed in 2026.

Port of Brownsville director and CEO William Dietrich said: “The BIH ground-breaking ceremony marks a milestone in our journey to shape the Port of Brownsville’s future.

“With the BIH project, we are strengthening our role as a catalyst for business growth and demonstrating our responsibility to the community by transforming the port into a dynamic hub for value-added industries.”

In 2019, the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved Texas LNG, NextDecade, and Annova LNG to proceed with the construction of LNG export facilities at the Port of Brownsville.