Baltimore, Md.

Tradepoint Atlantic Berth Modernization Structural Design

Client: Tradepoint Atlantic (TPA)
Our Role: Engineer of Record

Wide view of the completed inner berth with fender system, apron, and work barge at Tradepoint Atlantic.

Tradepoint Atlantic (TPA) needed to turn a legacy ore berth, built in the early 1900s, into a modern, multi-use marine terminal asset. The berth had to support heavy lift, roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) ships, and container-related cargo while fitting tight site geometry, complex subsurface conditions, and an active industrial port environment. The owner also needed a clear path to phase improvements without overbuilding day one needs.

GFT delivered end-to-end engineering, from early investigation through final design and construction support. We helped TPA define performance targets, confirm existing and subsurface conditions, and translate those findings into bid-ready plans that support reliable operations and future growth. The work followed the same steps owners use to evaluate and convert legacy docks into container-capable facilities, from concept alternatives to construction documents and field engineering support.

Key Features

Developed concept-level berth configurations tied to multi-use operations and phased implementation.
Defined load demands and waterside and landside interfaces to support long-term flexibility.
Led survey and coordinated geotechnical investigation, including a test pile program.
Supported underwater inspection and constructability assessment to reduce unknowns.
Designed a 1,850-foot pile-supported heavy-lift platform rated for 3,000-psf live load.
Used pile bents at 15-foot intervals with a 42- to 52-inch reinforced concrete deck.
Integrated crane rail readiness and high-capacity mooring hardware, including 100-metric-ton bollards.
Designed a 146-foot by 52-foot ro-ro barge berth platform to expand vessel interface options.
Provided construction administration support, including submittal review, requests for information, and coordination during critical work.

Outcomes

Converted a legacy berth into a high-capacity, multi-use waterfront facility positioned for heavy lift and ro-ro operations, with container transfer compatibility in future phases.
Delivered a heavy-lift platform system designed for demanding cargo loads and modern marine hardware, backed by verified subsurface inputs.
Reduced owner risk through early condition confirmation, test pile verification, and survey-driven design development.
Provided bid-ready documents and construction-phase engineering support to protect the schedule, manage field conditions, and maintain design intent.