Construction has commenced on the Port Everglades Bulkhead Replacement Project in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, US.

UK-based engineering consultancy Mott MacDonald has been involved in designing approximately 2,840 linear feet of the new bulkhead. 

This project is part of Broward County’s Capital Improvement Plan and involves replacing ageing bulkhead walls with new structures. 

Port Everglades handles a significant volume of economic and transport activity in Florida, providing employment for over 200,000 people in the state, the company said in a statement. 

It is also known as the world’s 'third-busiest' cruise home port and handles various cargoes, including petroleum and containerised goods. 

The project will see the design and replacement of multiple berths at Port Everglades, undertaken in phases.  

The design allows berths to be raised by up to 5ft to account for potential sea level rise and consider hurricane conditions, including hydrostatic drawdown and wave overtopping. 

It allows larger vessels with deeper drafts and more demanding mooring needs, including the Star Princess cruise ship, scheduled to enter service in November 2025.  

The Entrance Channel bulkhead will ensure access to the port’s main channel and align with future plans for channel expansion.  

The design allows construction to proceed without disrupting regular terminal operations. 

This project draws on Mott MacDonald’s work in the ports, coastal, and offshore sectors.  

In a press release, the company said it will continue to support the construction of Design Package 1 with engineering and inspection services while predesign activities for Design Package 2 are underway.