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Port Houston’s annual Community Resource Fair returned this December with its most visited event to date, welcoming 7,051 community members for a day focused on care, opportunity, and meaningful connection. What began years ago as an outreach initiative has grown into a marquee event that travels across the different communities near the Houston Ship Channel.

Eighty-two partnering organizations joined in this year’s fair, offering free healthcare screenings, workforce and education services, and more. Attendees received essential donated items, including household goods, toys, clothing, and other necessities. For many families, this free event provided a one-stop shop to find public resources available in the city, that help tackle critical issues like food insecurity and affordable healthcare.

“This event is about meeting people where they are and helping them access the resources they need to thrive,” said Maria Aguirre, Director of Community Relations. “When our partners come together for the community, everyone benefits.”

The value of the fair was felt throughout the day. Children took part in activities and brought home holiday photos with Santa, while families received one of the 500 trees distributed to encourage greener and healthier neighborhoods. At the same time, volunteers and staff members connected directly with neighbors they serve year-round, strengthening the relationships that are central to our community work.

The strength of our organization is closely connected to the well-being of the region we serve. As an organization committed to driving regional prosperity, investing in people and communities helps create long-term growth and opportunity. When families have access to resources, education, and support, the region is better positioned to thrive.

Thank You to Our 2025 Partners:

Ambetter Health

Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans (AAMA)

Anchor Point/Obria Medical Clinic

BakerRipley

BEAR (Be A Resource)

Cenikor Foundation

City of Pasadena

Comerica Bank

Communities in Schools

Community Family Centers

Community Health Choice

Consulado general de Mexico en Houston

Creative Mental Wellness

Crime Stoppers of Houston

DentaQuest

Essential Credit Union

Exploration Green

Family Houston

FamilyTime Crisis & Counseling Center

Galveston Bay Foundation – Dolphin Research Program

Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council

Greens Bayou Coalition

Harris County Precinct 2

Harris County Precinct 2 – Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s Office

Harris County Precinct 2 – Health & Social Services

Harris County Public Health – Dental Program

Harris County Public Health – Lead Abatement Program

Harris County Public Health – Office of Communications, Education & Engagement

Harris County Public Health – Public Health Preparedness & Response Division

Harris County Public Library – FutureU

Harris Health – ACS Clinical Grants Team

Harris Health – Eligibility Services

Harris Health – Mobile Mammography

Harris Health – Office Based Addiction Treatment

Harris Health – Strawberry & Baytown Health Center

Hearths and Hands of Baytown

Holocaust Museum Houston

Houston City College – Southeast Campus

Houston Habitat for Humanity

Houston Public Media – PBS & NPR

Jose “MEENR” Arredondo – Artist

LIFE Houston

Martin Hernandez Photography, LLC

MD Anderson Cancer Center

Molina Healthcare

North Channel Branch Library

NR Swanks Freight Brokerage LLC

Pasadena Chamber of Commerce

Pasadena ISD

Pasadena Public Library

Precinct 2 – Health & Social Services

Rainbow Health

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston – Care Mobile

Salud en Mis Manos

Santa Maria Hostel

Sarah’s House

Second Servings of Houston

START/Texas Health Steps

SER Jobs

Sisters in Recovery, Inc. – SIR House

Small Places/Finca Tres Robles

START/Texas Health Steps

Tejano Center

Texas Care

The Arc of Harris County

The Bridge Over Troubled Water

The Rose

The Rose – Mobile Mammography

The Salvation Army

The Source

The Women’s Fund

Trees for Houston

Uncharted Territory Solutions

United Healthcare IFP

United Way Greater Houston

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

VCare Clinics

YMCA International Services

Young Audiences of Houston

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A Day in the Life of a Crane Technician

Each day begins with a focus on preparation. “I get everything ready, see who comes in, and direct tasks,” Perez explains. “Making sure the crane is running mechanically and safely is priority number one—nobody likes downtime. When a crane goes down, it’s a race to get it back up and running or shift the work to another crane.”

His routine may sound repetitive, but the tasks are diverse. Every day presents something new. “It’s a mix of common sense and technical knowledge,” he says, laughing. “Sometimes, the monitor will alert me to an issue before I even get to the crane. Knowing what’s causing it ahead of time helps me jump right into the fix.”

Skills and Expertise: The Lifeblood of Port Operations

For Port Houston’s maintenance professionals, specialized training in electrical and mechanical systems is key, and the learning never stops. “I started from ground zero with on-the-job and technical training, and it just comes with the territory,” Perez reflects. The ability to troubleshoot complex problems in real-time, often under pressure, is crucial. “If a crane stops working, it affects everything—operations slow down, ships back up, and congestion becomes a concern. Fixing things efficiently is vital.”

Perez understands the direct impact of his team’s work on Port Houston’s operations. “Each STS crane handles 30 to 40 moves per hour, and the Port averages more than 9,000 container moves daily,” he explains. Keeping cranes running smoothly is essential to maintaining Port Houston’s productivity. “Knowing I’m a key part of the process gives me pride. Fixing things and keeping operations moving makes me feel like I’m making a real difference.”

Some of his most rewarding moments come from tackling a particularly difficult issue that may stump other people. Perez says when he is able to fix something extremely complicated, it gives him a sense of empowerment and makes him feel dependable among his coworkers.

Maintenance work comes with its challenges, though. The Port operates 363 days a year, in all weather conditions, and problems can arise anytime. Perez says, “You just have to breathe and handle one thing at a time.”

Teamwork and Safety: The Foundation of Success

Safety is a top priority at Port Houston, and teamwork is essential to maintaining it. “We always work in pairs on the cranes—it’s about looking out for one another,” Perez says. Following safety protocols has prevented potential issues on more than one occasion, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and collaboration.

Coordination with other departments is also key. Complex maintenance tasks often require input from various teams, such as engineering, safety, and operations. For example, if a large piece of equipment needs to be replaced, the engineering department might provide technical specifications, while the safety team ensures that all installment procedures meet regulatory requirements. Additionally, operations may need to adjust schedules to minimize downtime during the repair. Communication between these teams, whether through daily briefings, detailed work orders, or quick check-ins via radio, ensures that each task is executed seamlessly. Teamwork prevents delays, keeps everyone on the same page, and ensures that safety and performance standards are consistently met.

As global trade continues to grow and demand increases, the work of the maintenance team remains critical to Port Houston’s ongoing success. Across the port, 296 dedicated maintenance professionals, including the 35 individuals on the STS maintenance team, play a vital role in meeting today's challenges and tomorrow's opportunities.

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Led by Port Houston and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Project 11 is deepening and widening the Channel to accommodate larger vessels, improve safety and transit efficiency, and help future-proof one of the country’s most important trade corridors. Approximately 70% of the Houston Ship Channel Expansion, known as Project 11, has been completed in terms of miles dredged, with Segments 1A, 1B and 2, officially accepted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Segment 1C (Bayport Ship Channel to Barbours Cut) is on track for completion this summer.

Behind the scenes, skilled teams of engineers, dredge operators, planners, surveyors and more are executing every segment with precision, coordination, and a clear commitment to move this project to the finish line. By fast-tracking parallel segments and securing early funding, the project continues to progress efficiently, saving both time and resources.

Progress along the Houston Ship Channel has already created substantial benefits. Daylight restrictions have been reduced by up to two hours in each direction between the Galveston Entrance and Bayport Ship Channel, improving vessel movement along the waterway. That means fewer delays, less idle time, and smoother operations across the board.

With the combined 25 miles of the Houston Ship Channel and Bayport Ship Channel expansion now complete, the Bayport Container Terminal can accommodate larger vessels with a capacity of 15,000 – 17,000 TEUs, aligning with the Panama Canal and marking a significant leap in our operational capacity. This positions Port Houston as the port of choice for even more international trade.

Port Houston is also setting the bar high when it comes to sustainable solutions. Project 11 has utilized three types of dredges in its operations, including the nation’s most environmentally friendly, 32-inch cutter suction dredge with Tier 4 engines.

Over time, vessel emissions from day-to-day channel operations are also expected to decrease by 3% to 7% as a result of larger ships accessing a deeper channel with fewer transits. And what about all the material removed from the Channel? Dredged material is being used to restore marshland, build bird islands, and restore oyster reefs, all of which contribute to improved biodiversity, water quality, and coastal resilience in the region. These efforts reflect a strategic approach that balances operational improvements with environmental commitments.

As of April 2025, Project 11 is approximately 87% funded. The final phases are in the hands of the USACE, and construction will continue in stages, each one bringing us closer to a wider, deeper channel that supports safe navigation and economic vitality.

At its core, Project 11 is about progress. It’s about giving users of the channel a better and safer waterway, preparing for tomorrow’s ships, and investing in the infrastructure that keeps Houston competitive. The work continues but the benefits are already here.

Learn more about Project 11 at https://www.expandthehoustonshipchannel.com/

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More than 750 local and overseas attendees from diverse sectors in maritime, energy, and supply chain joined forces and gathered for the 3-day event. Kicking off day one of the conference was the HIMC24 Golf Tournament and Welcome Reception.

Day 2 and 3 were all about panel discussions, fireside chats, and interactive networking sessions. Participants explored strategies to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen customer relations, and build a more resilient supply chain that supports both domestic and international markets.

Attendees also received an overview about the Foreign Trade Zone 84 (FTZ 84) program and how Port Houston’s Economic Development team  can assist in the application process for new users, as well as the benefits the federal program provides to businesses. Benefits include significant advantages, such as duty savings, reduced tax rates on stored goods, as well as streamlined international trade operations. FTZ 84's service area covers over 4,000 acres across Harris, Waller and Wharton counties, and is highlighted as one of the largest in the U.S..

Some of the sessions included presentations by Commissioner Carl Bentzel of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), who led a compelling “Waterside Chat,” where he addressed regulatory trends and highlighted the importance of efficiency in adapting to the evolving challenges of global trade. Dr. Ricaurte Vásquez, Administrator of the Panama Canal Authority, delivered a powerful keynote offering a global perspective on the Panama Canal’s role in trade logistics, emphasizing the significance of strategic partnerships and continuous improvement. Meanwhile, Hall of Fame basketball legend Clyde Drexler joined Houston broadcaster Bill Worrell for an engaging conversation, drawing parallels between sports and the maritime industry to illustrate the importance of strong leadership and collaboration in navigating complex challenges.

The success of HIMC24 wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their contributions helped bring together industry leaders and create an environment for meaningful discussions. A heartfelt thank you to all our sponsors for their commitment to supporting this vital event.

An attendee shared, “HIMC24 provided a remarkable opportunity to connect with industry leaders and gain fresh perspectives. I left inspired and equipped for what’s ahead.” The conference’s emphasis on collaboration created a ripple effect, enabling participants to implement knowledge within their organizations while fostering a more connected industry.

The importance of collaboration in driving resilience and growth within the maritime industry was highlighted during the presentation of the Lone Star Award. This year, the Houston Pilots were honored for their steadfast dedication to ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of foreign and domestic vessels through the Houston Ship Channel, the nation’s busiest waterway.

CEO of Port Houston, Charlie Jenkins emphasized, “There are so many people here at HIMC24, in all sides of the supply chain industry, talking through complex issues, coming up with good ideas and great solutions. I find it to be very valuable.”

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, HIMC24 proved essential in uniting leaders to address challenges and develop sustainable strategies for the future. Port Houston looks forward to continuing this momentum with next year’s conference, bringing even more opportunities to strengthen the maritime community and global commerce.

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Since 1914, the Houston Ship Channel has been a partnership between the people of Texas and the Federal Government.

The Houston Plan was the first time in history that a federal project would have a local funding match. In 1909, Houston Mayor Horace Baldwin Rice led a delegation of influential Houstonians to Washington D.C. to persuade the U.S. Congress to deepen the ship channel to 25 feet for navigation. Mayor Baldwin and the people of Houston believed so strongly that deepening the ship channel was critical to the regional and national economy that they put forward a 50% match to get the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to complete the project.

The Mayor’s advocacy campaign became the blueprint for how all major federal projects are financed today, with a local cost share. This is why Port Houston provided a local match to jumpstart the current expansion, known as Project 11.

After deepening the channel by 1914, more dredging maintenance was needed to continually maintain operational depth. The process, known today as operations and maintenance dredging, is governed by the Water Resources Development Act. This federal law requires the U.S. government to provide funding to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers budget each fiscal year to dredge the siltation out of the federal channels around the United States. However, there is rarely enough funding to go around. So, Congress and the USACE must prioritize what is most impactful for the nation. As such, the Port must advocate for between $50 million and $100 million of operations and maintenance funding for the Houston Ship Channel each year just to maintain the depth of 46 feet.

This is where our Congressional Delegation and local officials get involved. Through letters, phone calls, meetings, and Congressional hearings, our delegation unites to champion the region's need for this funding. Highlighting our economic importance to the nation is critical in this effort.

Our Congressmembers work tirelessly to ensure enough funds are appropriated in Congress to use in the ship channel and avoid draft restrictions in the channel. If they are unsuccessful, the channel ends up silting in too much in certain areas, causing what we call a draft restriction. This means that instead of having 46 feet of depth in that area, there could now only be 40 feet of depth, which means ships that have to load lighter to clear the bottom of the channel. The partnership is strong between the USACE and Port Houston, and we greatly appreciate the commitment of our Congressmembers and local officials to keep fighting each year for this critical funding.

The Houston Ship Channel Economic Impact:

• 3.37M jobs nationwide
• 1.54M jobs in Texas
• $906B in economic value across the U.S.
• $439B in statewide economic value

To learn more about the Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11, click here 

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In order to facilitate a smoother and more convenient trucker transaction experience, we have a program called “Express Pass”. This program is designed to allow trucking companies to initiate trucker transactions prior to arriving to the container terminals. With Express Pass, we aim to revolutionize the appointment system and help truck drivers improve their experience.

It's simple yet incredibly effective. By creating a reservation by 6 p.m. the previous day, truck drivers can access dedicated Express Pass lanes and an automated entrance to the terminal. We highly recommend having your license plate number (LP#) present on the front of the cab for quicker service. License & Chassis are optional, and you can use your Trucking Company Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) if needed. This means less time spent waiting and more time on the road to their next destination.

Drivers who aren't registered for Express Pass might face delays, unlike those with Express Pass who benefit from expedited processes. With Express Pass, terminal operators prepare each container in advance of their arrival, ensuring a seamless pick-up experience.

Express Pass is not only about convenience; rather, it's about enhancing efficiency and productivity. Here's how it will benefit you:

• Reducing ingate transaction time to 15 seconds or less
• Eliminating the need for operator interactions, shortening transaction time
• Minimizing trouble ticket instances
• Minimizing truck turn times by allowing for advanced yard planning
• Enhancing Port forecasting ability, benefiting all users

Our goal is to have 100% usage of Express Pass by the end of the year, ensuring that every trucking company reaps the benefits of this efficient system.

Experience a new level of service and convenience at Port Houston's terminals by taking advantage of Express Pass today. Learn more about the process now. Visit our terminal page here.

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Rail services at Port Houston are improving connectivity for customers in Houston and other markets, including Dallas, TX, another key freight hub, with a population of 7.6M. To support demand and provide enhanced services for our customers, Port Houston is now offering weekly intermodal services from Barbours Cut Container Terminal.

Port Houston owns and manages the 8 public terminals in the Houston Ship Channel, including Barbours Cut and Bayport Container Terminals.

Direct rail access at Barbours Cut Terminal is supported by two railroad providers, Union Pacific (UP) and Burlington Northern Railroad and the Santa Fe Railway (BNSF). UP services support 11 destinations in the U.S. with the ability to load intermodal containers directly onto railcars to Oakland, Salt Lake City, Denver, Marion (IL), Chicago, Kansas City (MO), Los Angeles, Santa Teresa, El Paso, Laredo, Dallas and Phoenix with arrivals Sunday – Thursday and departures Monday – Friday.

BNSF’s intermodal services through its Pearland Intermodal Facility provide connectivity between Houston, Dallas, Amarillo, and Hudson (CO). The BNSF rail schedule includes arrivals on Saturdays and Sundays and departures on Tuesdays from Barbours Cut.

“Based on vessel arrival, these new intermodal service schedule updates have the potential to increase in frequency to meet growing intermodal demand at the Port of Houston,” BNSF said in feature on trains.com. 

These intermodal offerings will not only save customers time, but also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Railroads are roughly four times more fuel efficient than trucks.

Port Houston continues to invest in its facilities to support growth and make improvements to increase capacity. This includes $1.7B in landside investments in our facilities over the next five years.

To learn more about Port Houston’s facilities, visit us here.

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