Hendry opens new drydock in Tampa
Written by Marine Log StaffAPRIL 21, 2014—Privately held Florida shipbuilder Hendry Corporation recently christened its new 2,500-ton drydock, “ Capt. F. M. Hendry” at its facility in Port Tampa Bay. The event marked not only the 252 ft x 72 ft drydock’s official opening, but also the completion of the wastewater treatment facility, the A. W. Hendry Training Facility, and the naming of the 30-acre area “Port Hendry.”
Hendry Corporation’s Barbara Hendry smashed a champagne bottle against the side of the 2,500 ton drydock – as is customary – to commemorate the dock’s completion before staff, maritime professionals and local community leaders.
“To christen this drydock is an honor not only for me, but also for everyone at Hendry,” said Aaron Hendry, President of Hendry Corporation. “I’m extremely proud of the hard work that has gone into this facility and am looking forward to the new opportunities this drydock will bring for our company and for this community.”
As Marine Log reported on January 14 and in “Shipyards Bulk Up” in its February 2014 issue, the Capt. F. M. Hendry drydock, named for the company’s late founder, cost $3.5 million to build and is expected to have a long-term and positive economic impact. Funding for the structure was made possible in part by a $1 million federal grant under the Assistance to Small Shipyard Grant Program, which was designed to help shipyards modernize facilities, increase productivity and make them more competitive.
Capable of lifting tugs, barges and vessels completely out of the water for inspection and repair, the new drydock will allow the Hendry Corporation to repair and build larger vessels than it could previously handle. These ship repair operations provide high paying wages for skilled workers in a wide variety of trades including welders, pipefitters and machinists.
“We’re constantly striving to meet all of the needs of our customers and this facility enhances our ability to be a one-stop-shop,” said Joe Cimino, Vice President of Hendry Corporation.
In addition to drydock and shipyard services, Hendry Corporation and its family of companies offer environmental services through Universal Environmental Solutions, LLC and terminal services for cargo through Tampa Marine Terminals, LLC. Repair teams are also always available, thanks to the A. W. Hendry Training Facility, the company’s on-site welding school.
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