April 21, 2025 — The Port Authority of Guam marked another key milestone in its ongoing modernization efforts with the arrival of two 40-plug mobile reefer generators over the weekend. These advanced reefer units are part of the Port’s equipment acquisition under the $5.7 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration through the America’s Marine Highway Program.
Announced by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on October 7, 2022, the grant supports the Guam Marine Transportation Enhancement Initiative and is aimed at strengthening the nation’s supply chains by expanding marine highway services and improving cargo-handling efficiency at the Port.
“These reefer generators are essential to enhancing our cold chain logistics and supporting the growing demands of Guam’s import-driven economy,” said Port General Manager Rory J. Respicio. “With their arrival, the Port is another step closer to completing the full delivery of
critical equipment under this transformative federal investment.”
The new generators, valued at approximately $920,000, are designed to power up to 40 refrigerated containers per unit, ensuring safe and reliable temperature-controlled storage of perishable goods while at the terminal or in transit within the yard. Their mobility and capacity
significantly boost the Port’s ability to handle refrigerated cargo without disruption.
To date, the Port has successfully received the following equipment under the grant:
- Two 40-ton loaded container handlers – Valued at $1,247,000
- Three 10-ton empty container handlers – Valued at $687,000
- One 180-foot boom lift – Valued at $517,205.41
- Nine container yard tractors – Valued at $1,791,327
- Two 40-plug mobile reefer generators – Valued at $920,000
“With only five forklifts remaining for delivery, we are near the finish line in fully completing our grant-funded procurement of specialized yard equipment under the America’s Marine Highway Program,” said Respicio. “This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio, our Board of Directors and the hard work and dedication of Port employees. All equipment acquired under this grant proudly complies with the Build America, Buy America Act.”
As the Port nears completion of this vital modernization initiative, these continued investments not only improve operational capacity and resilience but also reaffirm Guam’s strategic role in regional shipping and logistics.
