LONG BEACH, CA — International Transportation Service (ITS) announces the launch of the South Slip Fill Project, a $365 million terminal expansion that will support some of the world’s largest container ships and deliver long-term benefits to the local economy — all built with American materials and American labor.
When completed in 2028, the larger ITS terminal at the Port of Long Beach will effectively increase cargo-handling capacity up to 50 percent and position ITS for long-term growth at one of the world’s busiest ports.
“This project strengthens America’s supply chain by investing in infrastructure the right way — using local labor and U.S.-made materials,” said Kim Holtermand, ITS Long Beach Chief Executive Officer (CEO). “We’re not just preparing for the future — we’re building it here, at home.”
“ITS has been a powerful force for environmental stewardship in our green port by modernizing terminal operations and moving more cargo containers by rail," said Bonnie Lowenthal, Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners President. "They’ve been great partners in our mission to lead green, and we look forward to more great things to come.”
“ITS’ commitment to further greening its operations, increasing capacity, and strengthening its ties to the Port of Long Beach is even stronger than it was nearly 20 years ago, when it became our first to sign a green lease,” Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero said. “By ‘building more America now,’ ITS is also building more land for the Port of Long Beach while expanding capacity and driving efficiency on its terminal.”
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A key part of the project is a 560-foot extension of the existing quay (wharf). This critical upgrade, which begins with filling in a 19-acre “horseshoe” gap at the terminal, will allow ITS to simultaneously berth up to two 18,000 TEU container vessels, a major step forward in handling the next generation of ultra-large ships and increasing overall terminal throughput.
Scheduled to be complete in December 2028, the project will be delivered by the Dutra/Griffith Company Joint Venture, with a focus on domestic sourcing and regional job creation. The South Slip Fill Project will create more than three years of employment for local workers, union trades, and small businesses.
“ITS is committed to supporting local unions, contractors, and engineers, ensuring this investment stays in the community,” Holtermand said. “This project positions ITS and the Port of Long Beach to meet global shipping demands while keeping the economic and environmental benefits right here in the U.S.”
The wharf expansion project is the latest in a series of upgrades at the ITS Long Beach terminal. Prior improvements includes the first on-dock rail system at the Port of Long Beach and the addition of five new electric ship-to-shore cranes capable of serving the largest container ships.
