The express delivery giant said the new service center will increase throughput capacity from 10,000 to 15,000 pieces per hour, enhance the efficiencies of the New York City DHL operation by combining multiple operations under one roof, and secure the company's ability to maintain a high level of service for years to come. "This new facility will serve as our gateway to the New York City market and with the strategic location near the Lincoln Tunnel will provide enhanced service levels for all of our local customers as well as accommodate growth for the next twenty years," said Mark Munoz, senior area vice president of operations for DHL. The development will handle a wide variety of shipments - including domestic and international parcels as well as palletized and container freight - and initially employ over 400 personnel when fully operational in May 2006. The New York City facility is one of many initiatives DHL has recently undertaken to improve its US efficiencies. Last year, DHL Express announced a $1.2 billion network investment program in the US market which has resulted in a newly expanded primary air and ground hub in Wilmington, Ohio, seven new Regional Sort Centers, and a recently completed West Coast distribution facility.