ConAgra has long-term lease at new warehouse

Port of St. Bernard-Associated Terminals (AT), one of the largest stevedoring companies in Louisiana, is opening a new 40,000 mt facility at the Port of St. Bernard, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 9. It is adjacent to the Mississippi River, the Chalmette Slip, and primary rail lines – Norfolk Southern and CSX. ConAgra International Fertilizer Co., who has been a tenant of an existing 6,000 ton warehouse at the site, will hold a long-term lease at the facility. Sources said the facilities location – on the east side of the river – will assist ConAgra in getting its product to eastern markets. AT says this will be the largest bulk cargo warehouse serving ocean-going vessels with direct access from the Mississippi River. The facility was recently completed and two new conveyors were added. AT says fertilizer is the main cargo at the facility, but that other bulk products can also be accommodated. AT said the warehouse was in development when Hurricane Katrina hit. At the time, the unfinished building received some damage and construction was set back, and the finished product was only recently completed. AT says this represents a story of perseverance, new business, and job growth for the region.