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Charleston aims to have its new cruise terminal completed by the third quarter of 2012 as the US port moves forward with its plan to increase cruise ship traffic over the next few years.

Three nationally-recognized teams have submitted proposals for the design of the new terminal, which will be located on the northern end of Union Pier Terminal.

All three firms have successfully converted existing marine cargo structures into modern cruise facilities and have partnered with local architects. Firms responding to the request for proposals were:

* AECOM Transportation of Sunrise, Florida, partnering with LS3P Associates Ltd., Thomas & Hutton, Design Works, Civic Communication, S&ME and Infrastructure Security Solutions.

* Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Inc. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, partnering with Goff D’Antonio Associates, Thornton Tomasetti, Inc., Newcomb & Boyd, BergerABAM, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., Aiken Cost Consultants, Design Works and BP Barber & Associates.

* CH2M Hill, Inc. of Houston, Texas, partnering with LS3P Associates Ltd., Collins Engineering, Thomas & Hutton and Design Works.

Design work is expected to begin in March 2011 after a team is selected and approved by the South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA) Board. Construction could begin this year, with a targeted opening date by the third quarter of 2012.

"We’re pleased to have such qualified and accomplished firms proposing to work on this project," said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the SCSPA. "Renovating an existing structure as our new cruise terminal will greatly improve the cruise experience in Charleston, while also complementing the character of Charleston. The cruise business is a significant economic force for both the maritime and tourism industries in South Carolina," added Newsome.

Charleston’s new cruise terminal will be located further north on the SCSPA’s Union Pier property within an existing structure. It will replace the current cruise terminal that opened in 1973.

Shifting the cruise operation north is a key element of the Union Pier Concept Plan, which was developed with significant public involvement. Moving the cruise operation will also shift cargo operations off Union Pier, freeing up more than 35 acres for redevelopment.

The cruise terminal design project covers all architectural and engineering plans, contract documents, costs and schedules necessary to convert the existing building into a cruise passenger terminal. The project will include the terminal building, parking, security, berth, baggage handling and other amenities necessary to efficiently handle one cruise vessel at a time.

Funds are in hand to renovate the building and deliver the new terminal. In December 2010, the SCSPA issued $170 million in new revenue bonds to fund several major projects, including the cruise facility.

The port of Charleston is expected to handle 90 cruise ships in 2011.