Dear Breakbulk & Project Cargo Conference Attendees, 

On behalf of the Port of New Orleans and the New Orleans Public Belt, I’m thrilled to welcome you to the Journal of Commerce Breakbulk & Project Cargo Conference presented by S&P Global. Port NOLA is excited to serve as the host sponsor again this year for this valuable industry gathering. 

Breakbulk and project cargo has and will continue to be a key part of our cargo profile here in New Orleans, given our breakbulk capabilities, expert terminal operators, direct discharge to barge capabilities, access to 14,500 miles of inland waterways and six Class I railroads via the New Orleans Public Belt. 

Port NOLA’s strong breakbulk capabilities are key to our diverse logistics solutions as we continue to position ourselves as an alternative gateway during supply chain disruptions. As carriers and shippers continue to look to Port NOLA as the US Gulf gateway of choice, we're committed to investing in our state’s existing maritime assets, while developing a second container facility that will serve vessels of all sizes and create more jobs and business opportunity. 

We look forward to gaining insights that cargo owners can use to plan and execute shipments of breakbulk and project cargo through US and international ports as we look to 2024 and beyond. You will also hear the latest market forecasts, analyses, and expert opinions concerning supply chains in the Port NOLA gateway and other markets. 

Keep in mind our important industry discussions are taking place just a few blocks from the Lower Mississippi River, the busiest freight corridor in the Western hemisphere with more than 500 million tons of cargo transiting up and down annually. The amount of commerce occurring on this working river is truly incredible. Take a quick stroll up to the riverfront to see for yourself while you're here. I also remind you to enjoy all that New Orleans has to offer from our world-class restaurants, museums, music, and, of course, our Big Easy hospitality. 

We’re honored to have you here in our vibrant city to learn, connect, and cultivate new opportunities to efficiently move breakbulk and project cargo well into the future. Thank you for joining us, and here’s to connecting with many old friends and building new relationships. 

Sincerely,

Brandy D. Christian

President and CEO, Port of New Orleans

CEO,New Orleans Public Belt Railroad