Board reinstates contract to elevate State Port pier

GULFPORT — The state port commission board has reinstated a $19-million contract to elevate the first 37 acres of the West Pier for storm-surge protection, with the understanding the final elevation would be lower than previously intended.

The Sun Herald reports W.C. Fore Trucking Inc. was hired yesterday to raise the acreage by about 10 feet, to 25 feet above sea level.

Port restoration director Joe Conn says the staff is now recommending pier elevations range from 10 to 14 feet. Warehouses, a road and a rail line would be at the 14-foot elevation.

The commission also will ask firms to submit proposals for an executive-director search. The new director would replace Don Allee, who recently resigned.