The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and Wallenius Wilhelmsen have announced the completion of the terminal upgrades as part of the Annacis Auto Terminal Optimisation Project in Delta, British Columbia.
Construction, which began in 2022, involved consolidating two existing automobile terminals, Annacis Auto Terminal and Richmond Auto Terminal, into a single facility at the Annacis Auto Terminal.
The improvements will allow the terminal to handle up to 480,000 vehicles annually (36 per cent increase in capacity).
The project includes the creation of 60 rail car spots through the expansion of two existing terminal rail yards, and a new vehicle processing building, along with the installation of eight electric vehicle charging stations.
Additionally, the project reportedly frees up valuable industrial land for other trade-enabling activities in the future, bolstering further economic growth in the region.
The project is funded by the Government of Canada through the National Trade Corridors Fund, the port authority, and Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
It is one of nearly 40 infrastructure projects proposed as part of the Greater Vancouver Gateway 2030 strategy to support national, provincial, regional, and local benefits.
“Last year marked a record year for auto trade through the Port of Vancouver, and the completion of these on-terminal works is a significant step forward in ensuring we are well-positioned to continue enabling Canada’s auto trade through the port,” said Jennifer Natland, Vice-President, Properties & Environment for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.
“We would like to thank our terminal operator, Wallenius Wilhelmsen, and the Government of Canada for their partnership in successfully reaching this milestone on this important project.”
“Consumers, workers, and small businesses benefit from efficient and reliable supply chains,” Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, said.
“By improving the efficiency of cargo movement at the Annacis Auto Terminal, we are supporting the growth of our economy and ensuring that Canadian businesses are competitive on the national and global stage. This will make life cost less for Canadians and British Columbians.”
“We’re proud to mark the successful completion of the Annacis Auto Terminal Optimisation Project,” said Timothy McGee, VP Canada Operations, Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
“As terminal operators, we’ve worked closely with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and project partners to ensure the improvements not only enhance operational efficiency but also support a safer, more sustainable, and customer-focused facility.
“The project has modernised key areas of the terminal and added dedicated infrastructure that will improve flow and support future growth. We’re confident that the enhancements will benefit our customers and partners well into the future.”
Earlier this year, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority commissioned the installation of new navigation aids in eastern Burrard Inlet that will enable safer and more efficient ship movements through the busy Second Narrows waterway.
