Ports and Marine Works:
Operational Excellence in Harmony with Nature
Marine construction encompasses a wide range of projects in coastal and underwater environments, including the building of wharves, jetties, breakwaters, and tunnels. In Canada, with its vast coastline and numerous waterways, this type of infrastructure is essential for supporting trade, local communities, and tourism. At Pomerleau, we understand the strategic importance of these environments—especially ports—as vital hubs for economic activity and global commerce.
Our extensive experience in constructing, modernizing, and rehabilitating port infrastructure allows us to deliver sustainable, high-performance facilities such as quays, cargo terminals, and coastal protection structures. By improving the flow of goods and reducing operational delays, these developments enhance regional competitiveness, increase capacity, and stimulate economic growth in key industries like logistics, manufacturing, and marine transport.
We leverage specialized marine equipment—such as barges, cranes, tugboats, and temporary structures—and cutting-edge techniques adapted to Canada’s diverse marine conditions, including strong currents and high tides. Combined with a strong commitment to health, safety, and innovation, our approach ensures smooth port operations and successful delivery of even the most complex marine projects from coast to coast.
Types of Port and Marine Infrastructure
Quays, Jetties, Docks and Wharves
At Pomerleau, we know that quays, jetties, docks and wharves are fundamental to the functionality of any port. These critical structures support the docking of ships and the transfer of cargo between vessels and land, facilitating the flow of commerce. Built to endure harsh marine environments, they are key to the efficient operations of any port.
Bridges
Bridges in port and marine infrastructure present unique challenges due to their construction in and around water. These structures must be designed to withstand corrosive environments and the constant impact of water and weather conditions. Additionally, the heavy traffic of vehicles and equipment that bridges endure in port areas adds another layer of complexity. This constant load and movement require the bridges to be exceptionally stable and robust to ensure safe and efficient transportation routes.
Breakwaters and Coastal Protection
Breakwaters are essential for protecting port facilities and nearby coastal areas from the damaging effects of waves and storms. These structures help maintain the integrity of port infrastructure, safeguarding it from erosion and providing stable conditions for port operations.
Container Terminals and Cargo Handling Facilities
Container terminals and cargo handling facilities are vital to modern ports. They provide the necessary infrastructure to accommodate large container ships, streamline cargo handling, and ensure quick turnaround times for vessels, enhancing the port’s operational efficiency.
What Challenges Do Marine Construction Projects Typically Face?
Marine construction projects face unique challenges, including weather conditions, logistical complexities, and regulatory compliances. Successfully delivering such projects requires integrated constructability reviews, marine-specific risk assessments, and the deployment of specialized equipment and methodologies—capabilities that Pomerleau’s dedicated marine teams consistently bring to execution across Canada’s coastal and inland waterways.
Planning Ahead for Seasonal Risks Associated with Marine Works
Because marine operations take place year-round and in multiple geographic regions, seasonal risks are an integral part of our planning. Spring floods, high tides, storms, and ice jams are all part of our marine team's daily routine, and we need to plan according to the natural elements. With the available technology, we can adequately anticipate all seasonal specifics and thus ensure the successful and safe execution of marine projects.
Regulatory Compliance around Waterways
Marine construction projects must adhere to stringent regulations and permits to protect the environment and ensure public safety. We adhere to the work periods authorized by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in sensitive aquatic areas and coordinate our operations with local seaway management organizations. Our experienced team works diligently to secure the necessary approvals and maintain compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
Environmental Considerations and Sustainability in Marine Construction
Our commitment to sustainability in marine construction includes minimizing the impact on local ecosystems and wildlife. By implementing eco-friendly practices and using materials that reduce environmental footprints, we ensure our projects align with environmental regulations. Braving the elements of wind, waves, and tides, our dedicated marine team excels in handling the unique challenges of marine environments while protecting local wildlife.
Protecting Species Near Waterways
We recognize the importance of safeguarding the diverse species that call our rivers and seas home, including birds and marine wildlife. Our construction practices incorporate measures to protect these creatures, such as timing our marine activities to avoid breeding seasons and installing barriers to prevent wildlife from entering construction zones. We work closely with environmental experts to ensure our projects do not disrupt local habitats and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity.
From Bridges to Jetties: Our Comprehensive Range of Port and Marine Services
At Pomerleau, we offer a full suite of marine construction services, ensuring that every aspect of port infrastructure is developed with precision and care. Our expertise includes:
Construction and Rehabilitation of Quays and Jetties : We specialize in the construction and rehabilitation of quays and jetties, ensuring durability and operational efficiency for modern ships and cargo handling.
Dredging and Filling Operations : Our dredging and filling operations maintain port depth, ensuring safe navigation and efficient movement of cargo.
Breakwaters and Coastal Protection Structures : We design and build breakwaters and coastal protection structures to safeguard port infrastructure from waves, storms, and erosion.
Container Terminals and Cargo Handling Facilities: Our container terminals and cargo handling facilities enhance port efficiency and trade capacity, supporting the growing needs of global shipping.
Contaminated Soil Management: We manage contaminated soil with sustainable methods, ensuring compliance and restoring site integrity for marine infrastructure development.
Marine and Coastal Engineering: We provide expert marine and coastal engineering services to design resilient port infrastructure and protect coastal ecosystems.
Bridges, Dams, Piers, Wharves, and Tunnels: We construct bridges, dams, piers, wharves, and tunnels that facilitate port operations, rail transportation, and freight movement.
We are committed to project management, safety, and regulatory compliance, delivering every project to the highest standards. Our team’s expertise in marine construction ensures that your port infrastructure project will be completed safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
Integrating Sustainability in Marine Construction
Eco-Friendly Practices in Port and Marine Development
Sustainability is a key focus in every marine project Pomerleau undertakes. By utilizing recycled materials, reducing carbon emissions, and implementing specialized techniques, we minimize the environmental footprint of port and marine construction.
Enhancing Marine Ecosystem Protection
At Pomerleau, we ensure that marine ecosystems are protected during port or marine development. Through sustainable dredging practices and careful management of construction debris, we aim to minimize the impact on aquatic life and maintain the natural balance of the surrounding environment.
Integrating Advanced Equipment in Marine Construction
Utilizing Specialized Equipment for Port and Marine Development
At Pomerleau, we rely on a fleet of over 1,000 specialized units—including barges, tugboats, cranes, dredging and lifting equipment—to execute complex marine operations. Our experienced teams carefully plan equipment use and barge movements to ensure stability, safety, and compliance, delivering efficient and successful port and marine infrastructure projects across all types of waterways.
Self-Performing Design and Construction Capacity
Our Civil and Infrastructure division boasts its very own marine team that self-performs both design and construction work. This capability allows us to maintain high standards of quality and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. By managing all aspects of the construction process in-house, we ensure seamless coordination and execution, resulting in timely and cost-effective project delivery.
Innovating While Maintaining Port Activities
As an innovation leader, Pomerleau has developed pioneering techniques that enable us to complete marine work without disrupting ongoing port activities. Our innovative approaches ensure that port operations continue smoothly while we enhance and expand the infrastructure. This ability to work efficiently in active port environments underscores our commitment to minimizing operational downtime and maximizing project efficiency.
Explore all our innovative port and marine works projects to see the extent of our expertise!
Trusted Partner for Marine Construction and Port Projects
At Pomerleau, our multidisciplinary teams bring unmatched agility and expertise to every marine and port infrastructure project—from initial planning to final execution. Backed by a vast fleet of specialized equipment and a network of top industry experts, we deliver innovative, sustainable, and high-quality solutions across all bodies of water. Our integrated approach, led by seasoned project managers and multi-skilled crews, ensures full control over each phase, guaranteeing smooth execution without compromising on quality, safety, or deadlines. Whether you’re embarking on a complex marine build or modernizing existing infrastructure, Pomerleau is your trusted partner in building the future of port and marine development.
