A newly opened wharf in the port of Kitimat is expected to increase the capacity of Rio Tinto’s port facilities.
The new wharf was built by LNG Canada for Rio Tinto at the mining company’s Terminal A Facility. It will be replacing a wharf and land that was leased to LNG Canada in 2018.
“LNG Canada is committed to ensuring that benefits from our project flow to local and Indigenous communities, and across British Columbia and Canada,” said Peter Zebedee, LNG Canada chief executive officer.
“The Rio Tinto Terminal A extension demonstrates this commitment in action, with more than 20 local and B.C.-based businesses and nations engaged with the project over 36 months of construction.”
With the new wharf completed Rio Tinto will be using it for importing a variety of supplies as well as exporting aluminum.
The wharf can also accommodate larger vessels and saw its first ship on Dec. 6.
“The development of the new Terminal A wharf is a major feat of engineering and construction, which speaks to the level of skilled workers we have operating in our community,” said District of Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth.
Construction on the terminal began in December 2018. Contractors from local First Nations including the Haisla, Kitselas and Kitsumkalum contributed to the completion of the project.