maritime

La Boca dock projects proposed

Three companies have their eye on developing the Balboa docks located behind the T.G.I. Friday’s restaurant on the Causeway. The project would allow for the growth of the maritime industry in the La Boca area, which sits at the opening of the Canal.

One of the contenders, Atlantic Pacific S.A., is prepared to invest upward of $20 million to build a fueling dock. Rival bidder Talleres Industriales wants to install an industrial pier for docking boats needing repairs. And Trans Ibérica & Terminal Services, the third competitor, proposes a supply wharf for restocking ships passing through the Canal.

“We’ve been submitting our request to develop a fueling dock there since 1994, but so far we haven’t received a reply from the Autoridad Marítima de Panamá (AMP),” said Atlantic Pacific S.A president Idis de Castillero.

“Extending the La Boca area docks will allow other port companies, such as Atlantic Pacific S.A and Trans Ibérica, to locate there,” said Lino Arosemena, representative of Talleres Industriales, who explained that mounting demand within the maritime industry increased the need for updating existing port facilities and services.

AMP officials said they will reserve the right to analyze the proposals’ compatibility with the La Boca area, since its located within Canal territory.