Delaware and Port of Wilmington operator Enstructure have marked the groundbreaking for a long-planned container terminal that state officials describe as one of the largest economic development projects in Delaware’s history. Opponents continue to question whether the added capacity is needed.

The terminal is being developed through a public-private partnership between Enstructure, which has operated the Port of Wilmington since 2023, and the Diamond State Port Corporation, a state entity. Total investment is $669 million, including $225 million from Enstructure, $325 million from Delaware, and $119 million in federal grants.

Located on a former industrial site north of the city and about three miles from the current port, the project will be developed in phases and is on track to open in early 2029. Enstructure says it more than doubles the port’s capacity and will strengthen supply chains for customers across North America. The Port of Wilmington is a full-service deepwater port handling more than 400 vessels and six million tons of cargo annually.