DECATUR

• USDCU
• Latitude: 34.61
• Longitude: -87.0124
• Inland, USA
• Port in US

Location: Decatur AL 35601 US

Phone number: +1-256-340-6600

Web-site: http://www.portofdecatural.com/

Decatur, located in the state of Alabama, is home to Port of Decatur, an inland port on the Tennessee River. While it doesn't match the scale of coastal seaports, it plays a critical role in the regional economy by facilitating the movement of various goods. Here are the key features and specifications of the Port of Decatur:

General Description:

• Location: Decatur, Alabama, on the Tennessee River.
• Coordinates: Approximately 34.6059° N latitude and 86.9833° W longitude.
• Operations: Primarily handles bulk commodities, general cargo, and containerized goods. It acts as a distribution hub for the region.

Infrastructure:

• Terminals: Multiple terminals equipped to handle different types of cargo, including bulk, breakbulk, and containers.
• Dock Facilities: Includes both public and private docks with ample infrastructure to support various cargo handling operations.
• Storage: On-site warehousing and storage facilities for different types of cargo, including covered storage for weather-sensitive materials.
• Transportation Links: Integrated transportation network with connections to major highways (I-65, I-565), railroads (serviced by CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railway), and barge facilities on the Tennessee River.

Specifications:

• Channel Depth: Typically around 9 to 12 feet (2.7 to 3.7 meters), suitable for handling barges and smaller vessels.
• Berth Depth: Depends on specific docking points; generally adequate for the types of vessels servicing an inland port.
• Waterway: Tennessee River, which connects to the Mississippi River, enabling transportation to the Gulf of Mexico and other inland waterway systems.
• Cargo Handling Equipment: Cranes, conveyor systems, forklifts, and other specialized equipment for efficient loading and unloading operations.

Services:

• Customs and Inspection: Facilities and services for customs processing and regulatory inspections.
• Logistics and Distribution: Comprehensive services for cargo handling, storage, and distribution, including third-party logistics providers.
• Support Services: Maintenance, repair services, vessel fueling, and other support infrastructure.

Economic Impact:

• Regional Importance: Serves as a pivotal point for the distribution of agricultural products, chemicals, petroleum products, and industrial materials, significantly impacting the local and regional economy.
• Employment: Provides numerous jobs in cargo handling, logistics, transportation, and ancillary services.
• Partnerships: Works closely with local industries, businesses, and government entities to promote economic development and trade.

Environmental Considerations:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts to minimize environmental impact include sustainable practices in cargo handling, waste management, and emission control.
• Regulations: Compliance with state and federal environmental regulations to protect the Tennessee River and surrounding ecosystems.

Future Development:

• Expansion Plans: Continual improvement and expansion projects aimed at increasing capacity, enhancing efficiency, and supporting economic growth.
• Technology Upgrades: Implementation of modern technologies for cargo handling, security, and operational management to maintain competitiveness.

The Port of Decatur exemplifies the strategic importance of inland ports in facilitating trade and supporting regional economies through efficient transportation and logistics services.