The Douglas Port Authority is moving ahead with its goal of helping to create a new commercial port of entry in Douglas.

The Authority was incorporated on March 3, 2008, making it the state’s third port authority behind the Greater Nogales Santa Cruz County Port Authority and the Greater Yuma Port Authority.

The incorporation was the result of countless discussions and planning sessions, which began in 2007.

The Douglas Port of Entry is the second largest commercial port in the state with more than $1 billion in trade conducted each year.

 “The basic mission of the Douglas International Port Authority is to promote trade and commerce. High on the priority list, of course, is the expansion and further development of the Douglas Port of Entry; the new commercial port of entry and enhanced pedestrian and POV services essential to further growth and prosperity of the region on both sides of the border. “Increased amounts of logistical traffic to the port will expand economic activity for both the U.S. and Mexico ports and increase the potential for more jobs and growth for their respective communities,” said Carlos Fernandez, Authority chairman and owner/CEO of Bob Fernandez and Sons.

Unlike the Nogales and Yuma port authorities, which are comprised primarily of government entities, the Douglas International Port Authority, Inc., incorporated as a non-profit, private organization, and is comprised and directed by area executives representative of the business service sector, cross border manufacturing and agribusiness industries as well as community and economic development, Fernandez said.

Also, the Authority has been structured to get participation and input from all stakeholders.

Joining him on the board are Victor Gonzalez, manager/director, Economic Development Director for the City of Douglas; Oscar Vildosola, vice chairman, CEO/owner of AriMex Custom Brokers; Ken Johnson, general manager of Precept (formerly White Knight); Troy Johnson, CEO/owner of Fiesta Canning; and Manuel  Arce, general manager, Levelor.

Areas of focus for the Douglas International Port Authority will be the integration of key stakeholders in the process to impact the reconfiguration of the Douglas Port of Entry and garner support at all levels of the project, including design and implement key strategies for the development to increase trade and industry and provide a forum for port users to interact with appropriate government agencies.

“The Douglas Port Authority will play a pivotal role in the future development and growth of Douglas, Agua Prieta and the region,” Fernandez said. “The Douglas International Port Authority believes that the Douglas Port of Entry can currently serve as an efficient alternative to the congested port of Nogales, resulting in what could be a viable eastern passage of the CANAMEX corridor.”

The Douglas International Port Authority will have periodic open meetings and updates for the community.