International-Matex Tank Terminals (IMTT), the leading independent bulk liquids storage and logistics provider in North America, is investing nearly $1 million to upgrade its original terminal, the Avondale tank farm. The tank farm was purchased by company founder James Coleman Sr. in 1939 and is located in New Orleans.
The upgrade work is set to commence this week and is expected to be completed by mid-April. The PALA Group, an industrial construction company based in Baton Rouge, has been contracted for the project, according to public records.
IMTT currently operates 11 bulk liquid storage terminals in the United States and Canada. The Avondale tank farm, which consists of 88 tanks, is situated at 5450 River Road near Avondale Global Gateway and has a capacity of 1.1 million barrels.
The planned upgrades at the Avondale tank farm, estimated to cost $943,000, involve the extension of a walkway and pipe rack to provide access to four loading locations for rail cars. This enhancement will offer additional loading flexibility for one of IMTT’s existing vegetable oil customers, as stated by Carlin Conner, IMTT’s Chairman and CEO, referring to the project in Jefferson Parish building permit records.
Conner further emphasised that the modifications will be concentrated within IMTT Avondale’s fenced area, specifically at the existing rail facilities. Consequently, IMTT does not anticipate any adverse impact on the neighboring community or businesses.
Over the past four years, IMTT has directed over $400 million towards initiatives in south Louisiana aimed at reducing its reliance on petroleum products storage. Instead, the company has shifted its focus towards renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel feedstocks and finished products, methanol as a low-carbon alternative marine bunker fuel, and other agricultural products. In 2023, more than 50 percent of IMTT’s overall revenue was generated from handling non-petroleum products.
During the past 18 months, IMTT has divested itself of five terminals located in Alabama, Georgia, and New Mexico. These facilities were sold to a suburban Denver company specialising in the storage and transportation of jet fuel. Additionally, IMTT sold its sixth terminal, located in Gretna, to a Houston-based company.
For more information visit www.imtt.com
