Increasing efficiency at JAXPORT’s Blount Island terminal

2 MIN READ

Maintaining cargo efficiency is a priority for us. As we continue to make progress on ongoing modernization projects at the Blount Island Marine Terminal, JAXPORT and port partner SSA Atlantic are each taking steps to improve traffic flow and reduce backups.

Below are the initiatives we are taking now and into the future that will enhance the terminal’s operational efficiency. In addition, at the bottom of this message is information about the steps truck drivers can take to help us increase gate efficiency and reduce delays.

JAXPORT initiatives to improve efficiency at the Main Gate

Current:

• Installation of new camera devices to help with efficient sleeper cab inspections. The first two cameras are set to arrive in mid-December.
• Added additional security staff at the Main Gates.
• Evaluating reopening Lane 1 for smaller vehicles.
• Conducting traffic flow study in partnership with the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and FDOT.

Long-term:

• In early 2025, JAXPORT will begin construction on a project to add an additional lane to Dave Rawls Blvd. near the security plaza. The extra lane will be available for use about six months following the start of construction.
  • Simultaneously, a separate project to develop an additional security plaza entrance on the west side of Blount Island is also in the design phase, and construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
• New electronic TWIC readers are set to begin service in 2025.
• Evaluating additional IT solutions to improve efficiency at gates.

SSA Atlantic initiatives to improve efficiencies at the SSA Gate

• The SSA Jacksonville Container Terminal is now entirely paperless. Electronic processing provides more efficient movement of cargo upon a driver’s arrival.
• Alternative gates available for peel pile customers.
• Construction on the gate expansion project at the entrance of the SSA terminal will be completed in the first quarter of 2025 and will improve operational efficiency.
• Terminal modernization construction will be complete in the summer of 2025, further easing construction-related delays.
• New cargo-handling equipment is currently on order to expedite landside cargo movement.

How drivers can help

JAXPORT has implemented additional screening measures in response to an increase in drivers attempting to enter restricted areas with undeclared passengers. Upon arriving at the JAXPORT Main Gate, drivers must:

• Properly declare all passengers
• Have TWIC out and ready
• Answer questions from security personnel promptly
• Avoid cell phone use at the gate

If a driver doesn’t have a TWIC, please encourage them to apply for one. The TWIC Escort process reduces gate efficiencies and increases wait times for everyone. Information about obtaining a TWIC is available here.

Thank you for your business and partnership.