Horizon Sale Shouldn’t Affect Pier III

Brianna Gibbs/KMXT

           Last week, KMXT told you about the domestic shipping company, Horizon Lines, breaking up and merging with other companies.  Horizon will sell off its Alaska Routes, which include regular service between Tacoma, Anchorage, Unalaska and Kodiak, to Matson, Inc.
            During Thursday’s City Council meeting, Councilman John Whiddon asked City Manager Aimee Kniaziowski if that merger will affect the recent contract negotiated between the city and Horizon Lines. 
           “No, I do not anticipate any questions or problems or issues.”   
            Kniaziowski said she does expect the city will have to bring those contract agreements back before the council once the merger and sale goes forward, mainly for formal name changes. Other than that she doesn’t feel there should be any problems with the new contract and previous negotiations.
           “That was a lot of hard work that went into those. I think both parties feel good about them.”
            Horizon and Matson officials are saying the merger and sale process will take about a year and they aren’t expecting any operational changes to Pier III, or the construction project that is well underway.     Kniaziowksi said more information should be coming and she would certainly let the council know if she hears otherwise.
            Overall, Kniaziowski said Matson appears to be a sound company with many years of experience in container shipping. She said they seem to really value the Alaska trade lane and the input and expertise from locals in Alaska’s ports.