PHA Commission Considers Security Contract and MOU

The Port of Houston Authority (PHA) commission will consider several recommendations involving contract awards, bids and proposals, professional services and general administrative and operational matters during its meeting at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 15 at the Lou Lawler Seafarers Center located at 1817 Barbours Cut Boulevard (off Highway 146) in LaPorte, Texas. Chairman Jim Edmonds will preside over the meeting, which is open to the public. Security The commission will consider a recommendation to award a contract to TRC-ECON Capital, L.P. for security infrastructure enhancements. If the estimated $12 million, three-year design/build contract is approved, TRC-ECON would be expected to prepare a security master plan and implement the design and construction of fences, closed-circuit television systems, facility access controls and other security enhancements. The commission will also consider a recommendation to execute a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will enable Global Environment & Technology Foundation (GETF) to help PHA develop and implement the first security management system (SMS) at a U.S. port. If approved, GETF would be expected to mentor, coach, and consult in the training and development of an integrated, multi-facility security system that can be managed, continually updated, and improved in a manner similar to PHA's environmental management system. The MOU is expected to cover services over a two-year period at an estimated cost of $45,000. Advertising for Road Project Proposals The commission will consider a recommendation to approve technical plans and specifications and authorize PHA to advertise and receive competitive sealed proposals (CSPs) for construction of an east-west collector road to improve internal traffic flow and safety between four terminals at the Barbours Cut Container facility. If approved, qualified prospective contractors would be invited by PHA to submit CSPs offering to provide concrete paving, high mast lighting upgrades, fire protection, pavement striping and other utility adjustments. The estimated cost of the project is expected to range between $2.3 million and $2.9 million. Morgan's Point Hike & Bike Trail The commission will consider a recommendation to award an estimated $69,691 contract to R.W. Patrick and Associates, Inc. for professional services related to the second phase of construction for the Morgan's Point Hike & Bike Trail. If approved, the firm would be expected to provide engineering, topographic, and geotechnical services, develop plans, specifications and estimates, and provide limited construction phase services. The commission will also consider a recommendation for an interlocal agreement between PHA and Harris County for hike and bike trail improvements along Bayridge Road. If approved, PHA would be authorized to pay an estimated $300,315 to Harris County to cover a portion of the project funding for road improvements. Greater Houston Partnership Agreements The commission will consider two recommendations involving the renewal of agreements with the Greater Houston Partnership. If approved, PHA would be expected to continue working closely with the GHP's Economic Development Division and Houston World Trade Association to promote business and trade, develop professional publications, and disseminate commercial information about the port to prospects in the U.S. and worldwide. Chamber of Commerce Agreements The commission will consider recommendations to initiate agreements with East End Chamber of Commerce, Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce. If approved, PHA's agreements with the chambers would involve the initiation, continuation and expansion of several mutually beneficial activities, programs, and services to promote the development of international trade and business opportunities at the port for the chambers' members throughout the greater Houston region.