KEY TAKEAWAYS: Associated Terminals christens two Liebherr CBG 500 E cranes, the D. Lopez and the Bill S. Cranes mounted on custom barges with 90-ton lifting capacity and advanced efficiency systems. Investment modernizes river infrastructure and strengthens cargo handling on the Lower Mississ ippi. Cranes named to honor company leaders Dawn Lopez and Bill Sullivan.   Associated Terminals is marking a major step in modernizing river cargo operations by christening two new Liebherr CBG 500 E cranes along the Mississippi River. The cranes, named the D. Lopez and the Bill S., are designed to enhance bulk cargo handling for the Lower Mississippi River. The ceremony takes place today at Woldenberg Park, drawing company leadership, project partners, industry stakeholders, and invited guests. Each crane, mounted on purpose-built barges, has a lifting capacity of up to 90 tons and incorporates advanced power, load-management, and energy recovery systems aimed at improving efficiency and long-term reliability. “These cranes strengthen our capabilities today while reinforcing our responsibility to operate safely, efficiently, and with purpose for decades to come,” said Todd Fuller, president of Associated Terminals. “The christening represents far more than the addition of new equipment. It reflects how we lead this company—by investing deliberately, planning for the long term, and setting a high standard for how cargo moves on the river.” The new cranes feature remote diagnostics, operator-focused design improvements, and enhanced fuel efficiency, supporting continuous, high-volume service for inland river conditions. The investment aligns with the company’s strategy to modernize river infrastructure, support customer service, and prepare for future cargo demand. In keeping with company tradition, the cranes were named to honor two leaders who have significantly contributed to Associated Terminals’ growth: Dawn Lopez, vice president of marketing and public relations, and Bill Sullivan, vice president of sales. “By modernizing our river infrastructure with advanced crane and barge systems, we’re building smarter, more enduring operations and positioning the Mississippi River to meet the next generation of cargo demand while remaining a competitive gateway for global trade,” said Gary Poirrier, chairman of Associated Terminals. Liebherr-Rostock GmbH, the crane manufacturer, also highlighted the collaborative effort. “The christening reflects what can be achieved through collaboration and forward thinking,” said Gregor Hillen, sales manager for port and transshipment solutions. “We are proud to stand alongside Associated Terminals in shaping the future of river cargo handling.” Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Convent, Louisiana, Associated Terminals provides stevedoring and marine logistics services along the Lower Mississippi River. The company specializes in cargo handling, dockside crane operations, and terminal services that support global trade, emphasizing safety, operational excellence, and infrastructure investment. ...read more read less