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For Immediate Release

PORT OF VANCOUVER BUYS LARGEST MOBILE HARBOR CRANE IN NORTH AMERICA

May 9, 2006 -- Port of Vancouver commissioners today approved the purchase of the largest heavy lift mobile harbor crane in North America. Strong enough to lift two space shuttles simultaneously; yet able to turn on a dime in any direction - the newest harbor crane in the Port of Vancouver equipment fleet will be capable of hoisting up to 140 metric tons, almost double the lifting capability of the port's largest crane.

The LHM 500S crane, the newest model from Austrian crane manufacturer Liebherr, was also favored by the port for its capability to lift greater weights on an extended boom, and then rotate up to 360 degrees to position the cargo on the dock. These features improve the efficiency of cargo operations and minimize multiple moves; ultimately, saving port customers time and labor costs.

With 20 axles and 80 wheels the LHM 500S crane can maneuver in any direction, and can be positioned along the port's marine terminals, cargo storage areas, or rail yards. The crane weighs close to 500 tons, has a tower height of 116.5 feet, and a boom length of 174 feet. The crane is powered by a 12-cylinder MAN diesel engine and is biodiesel-compatible, complying with the port's transition to using alternative fuels in its equipment fleet.

"Over the past decade, the port has invested nearly $100 million in renovating its marine terminals, and building a reputation for efficiency in transport logistics," said Larry Paulson, Port of Vancouver Executive Director. "The addition of this heavy lift crane enables the port to fully utilize these assets in attracting new cargo business which not only funds port operations, but returns jobs and economic benefits to the community."

"This heavy lift crane brings a whole new dimension for cargo handling in the Columbia River, positioning Vancouver as a premier project cargo port," said Alastair Smith, port senior director of marketing and operations. "We already handle several large wind turbine projects, and this additional capability will open up new cargo markets for the region to handle heavy or oversize equipment, generators, and components for large scale projects in the energy and transportation industries."

Port officials expect delivery of the new crane in late September.

The Port of Vancouver, USA, created by Clark County taxpayers in 1912, is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast. Its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a dependable labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community.

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Contact:

           Sue Groth , Port of Vancouver
           (360) 992-1129 or sgroth@PortVanUSA.com

           Mike Schiller, Port of Vancouver
           (360) 992-1113 or mschiller@PortVanUSA.com