Photo: Port Freeport Commissioners, leadership, and community partners celebrated the opening of Gate 12 with a ribbon cutting on August 14, 2025.
Port Freeport recently marked a significant milestone with the completion and ribbon cutting of Gate 12, a major infrastructure project that enhances access and efficiency at the Velasco Container Terminal. The gate became operational on August 1, and the Port celebrated the achievement with a ceremony on August 14, joined by Commissioners, leadership, and community partners.
“Gate 12 reflects the Commission’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that drives economic growth and supports the future of our region,” said Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission. “With the new gate in operation, the berth expansion at the container terminal complete, and the deepening of the Freeport Harbor Channel is nearing completion, Port Freeport is well positioned for growth.”
Replacing the former Gate 14, the new facility features two inbound and two outbound lanes, providing greater capacity to handle increased truck volumes, reduce congestion, and improve turn times. The project reflects Port Freeport’s commitment to modernizing operations and preparing for future growth as cargo volumes continue to rise.
“Gate 12 is a key improvement that strengthens our operations and ensures that efficient flow of goods through the Port,” said Jesse Hibbetts, Director of Operations at Port Freeport.
As one of the fastest-growing deep-water ports on the Gulf Coast, Port Freeport continues to expand its infrastructure to meet the needs of global trade. Investments like Gate 12 enhance the Port’s ability to support regional commerce while maintaining efficient and reliable service for customers. Port Freeport remains dedicated to building capacity, strengthening supply chains, and ensuring that Texas industries and families benefit from the opportunities created by global trade.
Port Freeport is a leading port in the export of crude oil and natural gas liquids and ranks nationally as 6th in chemicals, 14th in total foreign waterborne tonnage, and 26th in containers. A 2022 Economic Impact Study by Texas A&M Transportation Institute revealed that, nationally, the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobs and has a total economic output of $157.3 billion. Port Freeport serves Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, AMPORTS, BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., Dole Fresh Fruit, The Dow Chemical Company, Enterprise Products Partners, ExxonMobil, Freeport LNG, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Glovis, Grimaldi Lines, Hoegh Autoliners, Kirby Marine, Liberty Global Logistics, Linde, MEGlobal, NYK RORO, Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Inc., Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, U.S Department of Energy, Volkswagen Group of America, and Vulcan Materials Company.
Port Freeport is committed to keeping the local community informed of our operation and results. If you have questions or comments about this article, please email or call Amanda Veliz, Public Affairs Manager.
Contact:
Amanda Veliz
Public Affairs Manager
(979) 233-2667 ext. 4306
veliz@portfreeport.com
