Contact us
To receive project updates sign up for our project newsletter.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 604.665.9004
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is leading the Annacis Auto Terminal Optimization Project—in partnership with Wallenius Wilhelmsen Solutions (WW Solutions)— which will improve efficiency of the terminal’s existing operations and increase its capacity to handle a greater volume of automobile imports in the future.
About the project
The Annacis Auto Terminal and Richmond Auto Terminal handle nearly all imports of Asian-manufactured vehicles destined for the Canadian market. However, both terminals are currently operating at maximum capacity and modifications are needed to accommodate forecasted growth in demand for auto imports.
The project will allow the port authority to consolidate two existing port automobile terminals into one at the Annacis Auto Terminal. The Richmond Auto Terminal will be repurposed for other port-related businesses.
Terminal improvements include:
- Expanding two existing terminal rail yards
- Installing electric vehicle charging stations
- Replacing some terminal buildings with a new vehicle processing facility
At the same time, and independent from the terminal works listed above, the port authority will undertake separate maintenance works to enhance shoreline protection which will help safeguard the terminal lands from erosion.
Project benefits
The port authority has a strong track record of delivering high-quality projects based on best practices in environmental sustainability, environmental protection, and engagement. Benefits of the Annacis Auto Terminal Optimization Project include:
- Improving efficiency and capacity of the auto terminal to support Canada’s growing auto sector
- Supporting climate change resiliency by responding to increased demand for electric vehicles
- Increasing the resilience of the transportation system by reducing the extent train building required within the existing yard, leading to smoother yard operations and increased capacity
- Supporting further economic development by allowing for auto terminal optimization and freeing up valuable trade-enabling industrial land to be repurposed in support of other export trade development
Timeline
- 2019 – Project submitted to the National Trade Corridors Fund for funding
- Summer 2021 – Revised project scope approved by Transport Canada
- 2021 – Preliminary design
- Winter 2022 – Project and Environmental Review submission
- Fall 2022 – Anticipated Project and Environmental Review decision
- Fall 2022 – Construction begins
- Summer 2024 – Project completion
Timelines are subject to change
We acknowledge that while port-related developments provide local, regional, and national benefits, they may also have potential impacts on those who live, work, or operate in and around port areas.
Our approach to public consultation is based on two-way communication and open dialogue, working together to ensure the community, the environment, and the economy are all considered during project planning.
Public engagement period
From February 23 to March 29, 2022, the port authority held a public engagement period and invited the public and stakeholders to learn more about the proposed project and provide their feedback. Thank you to everyone who participated.
Our engagement summary and considerations report explains how we engaged, what we heard, and how we have considered the feedback provided. Read the project engagement summary and considerations report.
Project and Environmental Review (PER)
The port authority’s federal mandate is to enable trade through the Port of Vancouver while protecting the environment and considering local communities. We ensure port projects meet these requirements through our PER process.
The proposed Annacis Auto Terminal Optimization Project is currently under review (PER No. 21-019). You can learn more about this process and read the application at: portvancouver.com/projectenvironmentalreview.
For questions about the port authority’s PER process, please contact the port authority at [email protected] or 604.665.9047.
Project documents
June 2022 — Engagement summary and considerations report
June 2022 — Le rapport d’engagement du projet d’optimisation du terminal automobile d’Annacis
February 2022 — Project information
February 2021 — Fact sheet
Newsletters
December 22, 2022 – Project update
February 23, 2022 — Public engagement period open
Notifications
October 2022 — Notification letter — Construction start
February 2022 — Public notification letter — Invitation to provide feedback
Funding partners
This project is funded by the Government of Canada through the National Trade Corridors Fund, the port authority, and terminal operator WW Solutions.
Part of Greater Vancouver Gateway 2030