Richmond’s iconic Whirley Crane, one of the last visible links to the city’s WWII shipyards, shows significant corrosion and failing secondary parts that create falling-object hazards, according to an engineering report presented to the City Council on Tuesday. Engineers recommend restricting access around the crane and deciding whether to stabilize, preserve or remove it.
The crane assessment is part of more than $228 million in repairs and upgrades identified over the next decade to keep Point Potrero Marine Terminal (PPMT) safe and operational, Port Director Charles Gerard said.
Formerly Shipyard No. 3, PPMT was built in 1941-42 by Henry J. Kaiser as part of Richmond’s wartime shipbuilding effort that produced over 747 vessels. In 2009, a large portion was redeveloped into a modern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminal. Today, Berths 7 and 8 are leased to Auto Warehousing Company for vehicle imports from Korea and Japan, while Berths 5 and 6, located alongside the Rigger’s Loft building, have seen limited use. The Graving Basins and Finger Piers remain active for marine operations and house the SS Red Oak Victory. A longterm proposal is in the works to relocate the historic ship, now a floating museum, to a yet-constructed wharf near the Ferry Building.
Because much of the infrastructure dates to the 1940s, the city commissioned Moffatt & Nichol with partners Liftech, ENGEO and Power Engineering Construction to conduct a comprehensive assessment. The report prioritizes immediate structural repairs at Berths 7–8, including a broken beam, deck settlement, and damaged piles, followed by wharf repairs, fender and mooring replacements, and stormwater/electrical upgrades to improve safety and environmental performance.
Later phases focus on major rehabilitation and modernization projects that could extend the terminal’s life and prepare it for heavier or diversified cargo operations. Funding would come from tenant investments, public-private partnerships, state and federal grants, and revenue-backed financing, according to the port director. Repairs at Berths 7–8 are recommended to begin within the next year while staff pursue grant and bond options.
Councilmembers supported moving safety work forward while asking for a deeper look at financing and long-term strategy. A study session will be scheduled in the coming weeks to review funding options and port priorities.
To read the the city’s presentation to council, go here. For the full report, go here.
