Facility Inauguration Events
OPPORTUNITY
A major liquefied natural gas import terminal in Southeast Texas was completing final commissioning of the new import facility and expecting its first LNG cargo. This was an important and exciting milestone for the facility, as the construction team had experienced significant challenges when the area was hit by Hurricanes Rita and Ike. HDA supported the company in the facility siting process beginning in 2003 and was engaged to plan an event to celebrate the arrival of the first LNG carrier at the new facility overseas.
APPROACH
Positioned the arrival of the first LNG cargo as a positive community and project milestone. A viewing deck and reception was set up adjacent to the facility on the Sabine-Neches Waterway, providing an excellent vantage point for the ship's arrival. Invited local and national media, elected officials, state agencies, community leaders and fellow energy businesses to attend a viewing of the arrival of the tanker. Conducted a media pre-briefing on the day of the event to provide background information on the company and the new facility as well as media packets with fact sheets, photos and b-roll. Developed an agenda and talking points for representatives who would speak at the event, including the company president, vice president of human resources and public affairs as well as representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the county. Facilitated the program on the day of the event and handled managed media interviews.
RESULTS
The celebratory event was followed with significant, positive local and national media coverage of the company and its role in the LNG market. The community, including elected officials and key local leaders, expressed pride and support for the company and its achievements.
HDA continues to support the public affairs arm for the company, including support for a project to add LNG liquefaction capabilities to the existing facility and export LNG to world markets. It has been an exciting road filled with local and federal permitting activities, community investment program development, high-end Final Investment Decision celebrations and local communications associated with construction activities. More soon…