| Project Scope:
The Weno Seaport area is the hub of
commerce within the State of Chuuk. This area supports the
import of international cargo and fuels; the limited export of
raw copra to Japan; the transshipment of intra-State cargo; the
transport of outer island residents to and from Weno; and the
transshipment of fish harvested from Chuuk State vessels.
The master plan was prepared to
revise earlier design concepts for port expansion and develop a
new incremental plan for the improvement and expansion of the
Seaport. Following an evaluation of existing facilities,
development issues and options, the plan outlines five
recommended development phases for future port improvement and
expansion. Close coordination was made with local leaders and
Chuuk State officials who provided valuable insights to all
phases of the master plan.
A detailed analysis was made of
international and intra-State marine cargo traffic. These
analyses provided the basis for forecasting future international
vessel and intra-State vessel traffic and anticipated volumes of
marine cargo. A statistical model was used to calculate future
space requirements for cargo handling, transit, and storage for
break bulk, container, and CFS cargo.
Because of existing conflicts
within the Seaport area, commercial port facility proposals were
supplemented with alternate and recommended concepts for small
boat facility moorage. Pedestrian safety considerations and the
need for improved vehicular circulation in the Nepukos area
prompted recommendations for the redevelopment of a
commercial/industrial area that will ultimately generate greater
local employment.
An economic analysis was also
made of the existing Seaport in light of potential opportunities
for international financial support from the U.S. and Japan. A
net-present value analysis was made of anticipated project
costs, as well as economic benefits that will derived from
initial construction, increased incoming cargo, increased
fisheries, and commercial redevelopment. |
