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Ports and Waterways Facilities

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Maximize Storage Space and Maneuverability

FABRIC BUILDINGS FOR PORTS AND WATERWAYS

Ports and waterways demand specialized buildings with robust corrosion protection and spacious interiors to efficiently serve as vital transportation hubs. Calhoun Super Structure offers durable, worry-free solutions tailored to the ports and waterways industry.

Built from hot-dip galvanized steel for generational use, Calhoun’s fabric structures are the ideal choice; the breathable, long-lasting HDPE fabric provides abundant natural light and superior ventilation, while our free-span interiors maximize storage functionality for seamless cargo movement. The engineering behind our structures ensure you have a reliable, long-lasting port facility. Whatever size is necessary for your operations, Calhoun works with you to create a structure that meets your needs so you can keep your operations running smoothly.

GET EBOOK: UNIQUE BENEFITS OF FABRIC STRUCTURES FOR CARGO

Built to Last

Engineered for Harsh Coastal Environments

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Port operations require structures that can withstand corrosion, wind, and constant material movement. Calhoun buildings feature hot dip galvanized steel frames and durable fabric covers designed to perform in aggressive marine environments.

  • Corrosion-resistant galvanized steel

  • Wide spans for bulk material handling

  • High wind load engineering

  • Fast installation with minimal disruption

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Open-Span Interiors up to 250′ Wide

MAXIMIZE CAPACITY WITHOUT EXPANDING YOUR FOOTPRINT

As cargo volumes and storage demands grow, many ports face limited space available for expansion. Clear-span fabric structures allow operators to maximize usable square footage without interior columns interfering with storage layouts or equipment movement.

The open interior design supports higher storage volumes, more efficient traffic flow, and greater flexibility when handling changing cargo types and operational requirements. Whether storing bulk materials, containers, equipment, or seasonal inventory, facilities can adapt the space to meet evolving needs.

Engineered for long-term performance and designed for site-specific environmental conditions, Calhoun structures provide a practical solution for ports and waterways organizations seeking durable, cost-effective storage infrastructure that supports operational efficiency and future growth.

Why Calhoun

WHY PORT OPERATORS CHOOSE CALHOUN

Ports and Waterways Facilities

CORROSION PROTECTION

Hot dip galvanized steel frames and componentry are built to withstand constant exposure to salt air and moisture.

BULK HANDLING ACCESS

Wide, open spans allow for efficient movement of large volumes and heavy equipment without obstruction.

WEATHER RESISTANCE

Engineered to meet high +150 mph wind load requirements typical in coastal and waterfront environments.

FAST INSTALLATION

Rapid build timelines reduce downtime and keep port operations moving.

CUSTOMIZABLE

Whether you need a specific building length or a unique layout, we’ll work with you to engineer the most effective solution.

LOW OPERATIONAL COSTS

Compared to traditional building materials, our fabric covers and steel frames boast low maintenance and operational costs. With the natural light, you save on artificial lighting costs.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT

Natural light is more cost-efficient, even and constant, allowing you to minimize energy expenditure. This natural visibility helps increase safety and prevent rodents and pests from finding hiding spaces in dark corners.

BUILT TO PERFORM

Advanced 3D Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA) allows Calhoun to engineer each structure for its specific site conditions, optimizing performance, safety, and durability.

How Calhoun Delivers Ports and Waterway Facilities

1

Connect With Us

Tell us about your project goals, building requirements, site location, and intended use. Whether you need cargo or equipment protection, our team will help identify the right building solution for your operation and budget.

2

Project Assessment & Design

Once we understand your needs, we review key project details including building dimensions, access requirements, fabric options, doors, ventilation, insulation, and site conditions. We also evaluate local wind, snow, and environmental loads to ensure the structure is designed specifically for your location.

3

Engineering & Manufacturing

After project approval, our engineering team performs a comprehensive site-specific review using advanced 3D Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Once engineering is complete, the steel framework is fabricated, hot-dip galvanized, and prepared for shipment alongside the fabric building system.

4

Installation & Long-Term Support

Calhoun offers installation services through experienced crews or can support your preferred contractor. Following installation, our team remains available for inspections, maintenance, repairs, fabric recovering, and relocation services to help maximize the lifespan of your investment.

READY TO BUILD?

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1/5 Case study

East Lynn Fertilizer

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Industry: Fertilizer
Size: 150 x 260

As a family-owned and operated business, East Lynn Fertilizer sought a quality storage solution – crafted to withstand fertilizer’s highly corrosive properties – at a reasonable (…)

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2/5 Case study

CHS Inc

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Industry: Fertilizer
Size: 80 x 192

Feeling overwhelmed by their expanding operations and urgently needing a comprehensive facility transformation, CHS sought a cost-effective yet durable building solution for their Lowder location.

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3/5 Case study

New Cooperative Inc.

VP Series 170x340 on steel-legs fertilizer
Industry: Fertilizer
Size: 170 x 340

Since the 1930s, companies and farmers unloaded fertilizer barges at a select location along the Missouri River near Blencoe, IA – though, no barges had visited (…)

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4/5 Case study

South Central FS

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Industry: Fertilizer
Size: 288 x 120

South Central FS was looking for a cost-effective way to store large volumes of bulk macro and micro-nutrients of dry fertilizer prills. They required a structure (…)

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5/5 Case study

Source Energy Services

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Industry: Frac Sand
Size: 160 x 516

Source Energy Services required a comprehensive, specialized frac sand solution capable of managing 55,000 tonnes

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