More operators look to refurbish hopper barges

As steel prices hover around record high rates, barge operators are facing tough decisions. Recently, Belle Chasse, La., based C&C Marine and Repair, LLC signed a contract to re-side over 200 hopper barges for one of its customers. The process involves replacement of the outer hull walls of the barges, and usually the knuckles, with internals typically being replaced as required, on a case-by-case basis.

C&C Marine is now delivering a refurbished hopper barge every week and says the demand for...

https://www.marinelog.com/inland-coastal/inland/more-operators-look-to-refurbish-hopper-barges/

Poor communication blamed in $1.1 million barge strike on bridge

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued its report on a January 12, 2021, incident in which an empty hopper barge, pushed by the towing vessel Robert Cenac, struck the CSX Railway Rigolets swing bridge, located about 11 miles southeast of Slidell, La.

No pollution or injuries were reported. However, the bridge sustained damage estimated at $1.1 million, while the barge sustained minor damage estimated at $5,000.

The Robert Cenac after the accident (Credit: NTSB)

According to...

https://www.marinelog.com/inland-coastal/inland/poor-communication-blamed-in-1-1-million-barge-strike-on-bridge/