The Montreal Port Authority (MPA) is entering a new phase in achieving its Contrecoeur expansion as it prepares to launch a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain (DBFOM) procurement process that will be open to national and international industry players.
“Factoring in our timeline, we are proceeding with the development and implementation of the Contrecœur container terminal through this national and international procurement process, which will make it possible for us to identify which consortium offers the best terms and conditions, notably to operate our important project,” commented Martin Imbleau, President and Chief Executive Officer of the MPA.
The financial support from both levels of government, a favourable report from the Canadian Impact Assessment Agency, and a Ministerial Decision Statement will help the Port of Montreal to proceed with the Contrecœur expansion project.
According to an announcement, the purpose of the Request for Qualification (RFQ) is to qualify a number of national and international consortia that, over the next few months, will be invited to submit a proposal to enter into a long-term Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain agreement for the future terminal.
“With its industrial zoning and outstanding location near rail and highway access, the future terminal is an exemplary eco-friendly opportunity for a private partner seeking to participate in the growth of the St. Lawrence—Great Lakes Trade Corridor,” added the MPA President and CEO.
Interested companies and consortia will need to demonstrate their technical expertise, financial soundness and knowledge of container market development, according to a statement by the Port of Montreal.