Trailer Bridge and ATS International Move Mega Generators to Puerto Rico
21 Mar 2023
Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Coordinator Nancy Casper visited Trailer Bridge’s Puerto Rico port terminal last week to announce the arrival of the first shipment of mega generators that will support energy resilience on the Island ahead of the 2023 hurricane season.
The large-capacity generators will provide 150 megawatts (MW) and will be installed at the Central Palo Seco power complex in Toa Baja. This is the first shipment of generators to arrive on the island with a second shipment en route.
Transportation partners, Trailer Bridge and ATS International, were responsible for the movement of the oversized equipment from the U.S. to the island. ATS International managed the U.S. inland transport of the equipment from its origin in Arizona to Trailer Bridge’s port facility in Jacksonville, Florida. Skilled workers loaded the various pieces of equipment onto Trailer Bridge’s Roll-on/Roll-off barge for transport to the island. The first shipment included pieces that measured more than 100-feet in length and weighed more than 180,000 pounds. ATS International will also manage final delivery to the Central Palo Seco facility.
“This project is personal for us because its more than a shipment of generators, it’s a path to a better quality of life for our team members and neIghbors on the island,” said Trailer Bridge CEO Mitch Luciano. “We understand the critical role we play in the flow of goods to/from the island and our commitment to that responsibility remains a top priority for our business.”
The shipment is part of a long-term project to repair Puerto Rico’s electrical generation and power grid, increasing capacity to provide electricity to those on the island and reduce blackouts. During his visit to the terminal, Pierluisi championed the efforts being made to support the ongoing repairs to the island’s existing electrical system and create an environment for a successful transition to a renewable energy infrastructure. “Having provided transportation services for many significant infrastructure projects during our 30+ years serving the island, none have carried more importance than bringing these significant units to the island. These components are critical to the rebuilding of Puerto Rico’s power grid, and we are extremely proud to know our services are helping to ensure a brighter future for the island,” stated Jay Thomassen, ATS International VP-Commercial Services.
The shipment highlights the importance of Trailer Bridge’s barge service to the island which accommodates the efficient movement of oversized project cargo. The company’s roll-on, roll-off barges, the only consistent weekly service in the trade and largest in the world, are necessary to support the ongoing infrastructure improvements happening on the island.
In early 2021 Trailer Bridge signed its first 20-year lease agreement with the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, and then mirrored that agreement with a long-term lease for its U.S. terminal with JAXPORT in 2022 – solidifying the strong relationship and continued support of shipper’s needs to and from the island.
To connect with the Trailer Bridge team and learn how we can ‘Make it Happen’ for your cargo, visit TrailerBridge.com.
About Trailer Bridge
Trailer Bridge is a privately held full-service transportation provider headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida with offices throughout North America and in the Caribbean. A leader in transportation services, Trailer Bridge strives to provide customers the best possible service. This commitment to exceptional service has earned Trailer Bridge the Logistics Management Quest for Quality Award as #1 Ocean Carrier, Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces in America 2020 and 2021, as well as recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in Jacksonville, a Fastest Growing Company in Jacksonville, and a Top Maritime Business in Jacksonville. For more information about Trailer Bridge, please visit www.trailerbridge.com.
About ATS International
ATS International is a wholly owned subsidiary of Anderson Trucking Service, Inc. (ATS). Founded in 1955 and headquartered in St. Cloud, MN – ATS is a recognized leader in flatbed, specialized, logistics, van, and international transportation. With offices located throughout the United States, ATS is the largest asset-based truckload carrier in Minnesota, and the 30th largest for-hire carrier in North America, operating more than 2,700 tractors and 8,600 trailers. ATS International extends that service coverage, providing global service through both operated international offices and well-established agent partners. For more information, please visit www.atsinc.com.
