After more than 10 years of planning and discussion, a massive bulk cargo terminal proposed for Cherry Point could be gaining momentum. … Representatives of Seattle-based SSA Marine said they expect to break ground on the $400 million Gateway Pacific Terminal project by the end of 2012, and have it up and running within five years.
The terminal would be a loading point for large vessels carrying cargoes that could include grain, coal, potash, or other minerals that would arrive at the site by rail.
Given the complexities of environmental permits for such a project, the timeline seems ambitious. But Rogers Weed, director of the Washington Department of Commerce, said Gov. Chris Gregoire wants to help the project move forward.