Archives: News Entries

CHARLESTON, SC – APRIL 14, 2020 – S.C. Ports Authority has seamlessly kept freight moving at its marine terminals and inland ports while noting strength in several business segments in March.

S.C. Ports Authority moved 185,631 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) across the Port of Charleston’s Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals in March. SCPA has handled more than 1.82 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2020, from July through March, up 2% from the same time a year prior.

As measured by the total number of boxes handled, SCPA moved 105,003 pier containers in March and 1.03 million pier containers fiscal-year-to-date.

Vehicle and breakbulk volumes were strong in March. S.C. Ports moved 24,755 vehicles last month and 174,095 vehicles thus far in fiscal year 2020, which is up 27% from the year prior. In the breakbulk segment, S.C. Ports handled 73,342 pier tons in March for a total of 541,661 pier tons fiscal-year-to-date, which is up 23% year-over-year.

S.C. Ports’ two inland ports remain busy as customers look to efficiently move cargo from around the Southeast to the Port of Charleston via overnight rail.

Inland Port Greer saw 13,870 rail moves in March for a total of 113,790 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up 15% from the year prior. Inland Port Dillon saw 1,614 rail moves in March for a total of 24,507 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up about 17%.

S.C. Ports’ ability to efficiently operate port terminals and build customized solutions for customers has proved vital during this challenging time. The Port provides an essential service, and the entire maritime community is working tirelessly to ensure supply chains remain fluid, S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said.

“We are incredibly grateful to our port employees and all those working in the maritime and logistics community for their dedication to ensuring cargo — including food, supplies and medical equipment — is efficiently delivered to communities,” Newsome said. “We will navigate together through this challenging time and come out of this stronger than before.”

Newsome shares outlook for fiscal years 2020, 2021

S.C. Ports Authority has revised its container outlook for fiscal year 2020 - which runs from July 2019 to June 2020 - to 1.345 million pier containers, as compared to fiscal year 2019 volume of 1.364 million pier containers.

Ro-ro automotive shipments and cruise passenger counts will end fiscal year 2020 ahead of fiscal year 2019 based on a very strong performance in the first nine months of fiscal year 2020.

“It has become increasingly clear since the end of Chinese New Year that the COVID-19 manufacturing shutdown in China and the subsequent, significant shutdown of the consumer economies in the U.S. and the Western world means that we will not achieve our fiscal year 2020 volume plan,” Newsome said.

With a view toward a more conservative outlook for fiscal year 2021, the port is taking a series of immediate cost-cutting actions to address this anticipated shortfall:

• Deferral of one-time crane move from Wando Welch Terminal to North Charleston Terminal.
• Hiring freeze.
• Reduction in overtime through less vessel work.
• Significant reduction in business travel and entertainment.
• Significant reduction in advertising and promotion.
• Deferral of implementation of Tideworks, a terminal operating system, until the opening of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal.
• Elimination of temporary workforce.

SCPA is targeting an overall reduction of 10% in costs (excluding depreciation), which equates to about $20 million (on a cost structure of $220 million).

There will be no layoffs of full-time staff. The finalization of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal - Phase One remains on track to open in March 2021, along with the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, on schedule to achieve 52 feet of depth in 2021.

“We are proud of the dedication of both the SCPA workforce and the greater South Carolina maritime community in keeping port operations fluid in these unusual and challenging times,” Newsome said. “We continue to be very positive about the long-term outlook for both the Southeast port market and the South Carolina Ports Authority in view of a number of business development initiatives, which are ongoing.”

SCPA is currently formulating its budget and business plan for fiscal year 2021, which will be approved by the board at its June meeting. SCPA’s fiscal year 2021 begins July 1 and runs through June 30, 2021.

Infrastructure investments remain crucial

Over the past five years, S.C. Ports has invested heavily in long-term infrastructure, including increasing capacity and upgrading equipment, to handle the mega container ships being deployed today.

Three new ship-to-shore cranes with 155 feet of lift height have started working vessels at Wando Welch Terminal. The cranes arrived in October and underwent months of testing before being commissioned. The cranes are incredibly tall and have a wider reach, enabling crane operators to seamlessly move containers back and forth on 14,000-TEU-and-above vessels.

S.C. Ports is also preparing to open the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in March 2021, marking the country’s first new container terminal in more than a decade.

Phase One will have a 1,400-foot berth, 25 hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes, and five new ship-to-shore cranes with 169 feet of lift height and 228 feet of outreach.

The state-of-the-art Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal will greatly enhance S.C. Ports capacity and capabilities. The first phase will add about 700,000 TEUs of capacity; when fully built, the three-berth terminal will double port capacity.

“S.C. Ports is moving ahead with building critical infrastructure to ensure efficient operations and big-ship readiness,” Newsome said. “These investments are vital to remaining globally competitive, which benefits South Carolinians. Port operations support 1 in 10 jobs in South Carolina, and those jobs pay 32% higher than the state’s average wage, generating great economic benefits to our communities. We are proud to play a role in this.”

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- MARCH 17, 2020 -- S.C. Ports Authority had a record February for both cargo volumes at oceanside terminals and rail moves at inland ports.

S.C. Ports moved 197,214 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) across the Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals in February. SCPA has handled nearly 1.64 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2020, from July through February, a 4% increase from the same time a year ago.

As measured by the total number of boxes handled, SCPA moved 110,927 pier containers in February. The Port has handled 924,526 pier containers in fiscal year 2020.

Loaded export TEUs were up nearly 20% and loaded import TEUs were up about 14% over last February, both of which are record levels for that month.

Vehicle volumes are up 26% year-over-year with a total of 149,340 vehicles handled thus far in fiscal year 2020. The Port moved 18,156 vehicles at Columbus Street Terminal in February.

S.C. Ports handled 468,319 pier tons of breakbulk in fiscal year 2020, up 22% year-over-year.

S.C. Ports' two rail-served inland terminals both saw record activity in February. Inland Port Greer, located in the Upstate, reported 13,749 rail moves in February for a total of 99,920 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up nearly 18% year-over-year. Inland Port Dillon, located in the Pee Dee, reported 3,068 rail moves in February for a total of 22,893 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up 22%.

"S.C. Ports had a very strong February in multiple business segments. These volumes are bright spots amid much uncertainty in the global market," S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said. "S.C. Ports is operating normally and working with the entire maritime community to ensure supply chains remain functional. The Port provides an essential service, helping to move vital goods to people and businesses throughout the Southeast and beyond."

Construction progresses at Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal (HLT)

The country's newest container terminal, the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, is on track to open in March 2021 as construction advances in early 2020.

Site work for Phase One is well underway, preparing the terminal to handle trucks, operations, refrigerated container racks, containers and cranes. Phase One will have five cranes with 169-feet of lift height and 228 feet of outreach -- arriving in late summer -- and 25 hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes -- arriving in winter 2020.

Several buildings are beginning to take shape on the terminal, including the terminal operations building, the vessel operations building, several booths, canopies and other support facilities.

Phase One will have a 1,400-foot wharf capable of handling up to 19,000-TEU vessels. The wharf piles have been installed, and the concrete placement for the wharf deck is ongoing. The overall wharf work is about 80% complete.

"The ongoing collaboration between S.C. Ports engineering team and our contracting partners has led to impressive progress on the site, ensuring Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal is on schedule to open in March 2021," said Walter Lagarenne, S.C. Ports' Director of Engineering and Permitting.

Phase One will add 700,000 TEUs of capacity to S.C. Ports. The three-berth terminal will double Port capacity at full build-out, boasting 2.4 million TEUs of capacity.

"Mega container vessels will call on the country's newest container terminal this time next year," Newsome said. "Our incredibly modern terminal will house the Port of Charleston's largest ship-to-shore cranes, 25 new RTG cranes, a highly skilled workforce and a new wharf, all of which will greatly enhance our cargo capacity and big-ship capabilities."

SC Ports Board approves agreement with Lowe

South Carolina Ports Authority board approved today a professional services agreement with Lowe, the owner of the Wild Dunes Resort and developer of the new Cooper Hotel on Charleston Harbor, to entitle and sell the non-maritime portion of Union Pier for redevelopment.

The entitlement process entails master planning, design and community collaboration. The process is estimated to last between 30-36 months. Once finalized, Lowe will work on behalf of South Carolina Ports Authority to sell the non-maritime portion of Union Pier.

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state’s General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- March 9, 2020 -- S.C. Ports Authority saw steady container volumes in early 2020 and recorded the highest February ever for both cargo volumes and rail moves at inland ports.

S.C. Ports moved 197,214 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) across the Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals in February. SCPA has handled nearly 1.64 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2020, from July through February, a 4% increase from the same time a year ago.

As measured by the total number of boxes handled, SCPA moved 110,927 pier containers in February. The Port has handled 924,526 pier containers in fiscal year 2020.

Loaded export TEUs were up nearly 20% and loaded import TEUs were up about 14% over last February, both of which are record levels for that month.

Vehicle volumes are up 26% year-over-year with a total of 149,340 vehicles handled thus far in fiscal year 2020. The Port moved 18,156 vehicles at Columbus Street Terminal in February.

S.C. Ports handled 468,319 pier tons of breakbulk in fiscal year 2020, up 22% year-over-year. The Port has handled 206,050 cruise passengers thus far in fiscal year 2020.

S.C. Ports' two rail-served inland terminals both saw record activity in February. Inland Port Greer, located in the Upstate, reported 13,749 rail moves in February for a total of 99,920 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up nearly 18% year-over-year. Inland Port Dillon, located in the Pee Dee, reported 3,068 rail moves in February for a total of 22,893 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up 22%.

"S.C. Ports maintained strong volumes across multiple business segments in early 2020, with record volumes handled at our bustling terminals in February," S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said. "These volumes are bright spots amid much uncertainty in the global market. While we do expect our volumes will be down in March and April due to impacts from the coronavirus, we anticipate a rebound in May and June to finish the year above plan."

S.C. Ports continues to prepare for growing cargo volumes and larger vessels calling on the Port of Charleston. The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is on track to achieve a 52-foot depth in 2021.

Work is also progressing on the first phase of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, set to open in March 2021. The terminal recently reached a major milestone when the last pile was driven into the new 1,400-foot-wharf, readying it for Neo-Panamax vessels.

"We remain focused on executing our vital infrastructure projects, including deepening our harbor and building a new container terminal, to handle mega container ships carrying cargo to support the booming Southeast market," Newsome said.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- FEB. 10, 2020 -- S.C. Ports Authority saw steady container volumes in January, with strong year-over-year increases in the vehicle, cruise and inland ports segments.

S.C. Ports moved 211,020 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) across the Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals in January -- the highest January ever for TEU volumes. SCPA has handled 1.44 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2020, from July through January.

As measured by the total number of boxes handled, SCPA moved 118,943 pier containers in January for a total of 813,599 pier containers in fiscal year 2020.

Vehicle volumes are up 32% year-over-year with a total of 131,153 vehicles handled thus far in fiscal year 2020. The Port moved 15,546 vehicles at Columbus Street Terminal in January.

Cruise passengers are up 48% year-over-year with 179,792 passengers handled thus far in fiscal year 2020; much of that increase is attributed to Carnival's new Sunshine ship, which accommodates more passengers without increasing the number of ships coming to Charleston. The Port handled 26,522 cruise passengers in January.

"Our volumes are consistent and strong during a time of uncertainty in the global market," S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said. "Our success is made possible by our efficiently run terminals, excellent maritime community and advantageous position in the Southeast. We plan to further grow our cargo base through increased retail cargo and enhanced rail connections."

S.C. Ports' inland port network continues to see growth as more companies opt to move cargo to and from the Port of Charleston via overnight rail.

Inland Port Greer reported 11,552 rail moves in January, while Inland Port Dillon reported 3,237 rail moves last month. Combined, the inland ports reported 105,996 rail moves in fiscal year 2020, up 18% year-over-year.

In addition to growing and diversifying its cargo base, S.C. Ports continually invests in big-ship infrastructure. In 2021, S.C. Ports will open the country's newest container terminal -- the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal -- and achieve the deepest harbor on the East Coast when Charleston Harbor reaches 52 feet.

Roaring into the '20s

S.C. Ports recently celebrated the structural completion of the first building at the Hugh Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston. The operations building is taking shape as work progresses on the 1,400-foot-wharf. The terminal's first phase is set to open in March 2021.

S.C. Ports welcomed three new hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes to Wando Welch Terminal as it also prepares to have a new ship-to-shore crane become operational there this week. The new ship-to-shore crane has 155 feet of lift height; it is one of three new cranes that arrived in October.

The opening of the Leatherman Terminal and enhancements at Wando Welch Terminal will enable S.C. Ports to handle four 14,000-TEU vessels simultaneously next year.

Awards and accolades

In January, the Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey announced that Newsome will be inducted into the prestigious 2020 International Maritime Hall of Fame.

Newsome was also honored with the Roger Milliken Defender of Manufacturing Award from the S.C. Manufacturers Alliance, and the Distinguished Service Award from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

S.C. Port's Engineering and Operations Departments received recognition for engineering excellence by the American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina for environmental work on Drum Island and transportation improvements at Wando Welch Terminal.

S.C. Ports also won the highest award for the 2019 Charleston Healthy Business Challenge, which is an effort by the city of Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. to create healthier workplaces.

In 2019, S.C. Ports moved into its state-of-the-art headquarters building, which was built with employee well-being in mind. SCPA and its Talent Solutions Department were recognized for efforts to improve the health of employees through initiatives such as free weekly yoga classes, an on-site gym, an on-site health care facility, a walking trail, standing desks and healthy options at the cafeteria.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com

CHARLESTON, SC -- FEB. 6, 2020 -- S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome received the Distinguished Service Award from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville's, Global Supply Chain Institute.

The advisory board for the Haslam College of Business' Global Supply Chain Institute presented the award to Newsome for his many contributions to both the supply chain field and the university.

Newsome received his bachelor's degree in transportation and logistics and his MBA from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Newsome remains very involved with the university today by serving on the Dean's Advisory Council of the Haslam College of Business, mentoring supply chain students, providing critical content for courses, and establishing the Mr. and Mrs. James I Newsome Jr. Scholarship for supply chain management students.

"Jim always makes a point of getting to know the scholarship recipient," said Mary Holcomb, the Gerald T. Niedert Supply Chain Fellow. "He also always takes the time from an unbelievably hectic schedule to speak to and interact with our MBAs. His contributions to our program go above and beyond just 'giving back.'"

After earning his degrees at UT, Newsome embarked on a career in the shipping industry, including executive roles at Nedlloyd Lines and becoming president of Hapag-Lloyd America Inc.

In 2009, Newsome became the president and CEO of S.C. Ports Authority. During his tenure, he has successfully pursued vital infrastructure projects, significantly grown port operations and doubled cargo volumes.

He has worked to ensure the Port of Charleston remains globally competitive and a top 10 U.S. container port, generating one in 10 jobs in South Carolina and a $63.4 billion economic impact on the state each year.

S.C. Ports is now known as one of the most efficient ports in the country and was recently ranked as one of the Best Places to Work in South Carolina.

"Jim demonstrates that supply chain executives can lead their organizations to greater heights, not simply direct them to lower costs and increase output," said Ted Stank, the Global Supply Chain Institutes' faculty director.

Newsome said that his education at UT was an invaluable foundation for his career and that the Global Supply Chain Institute creates great opportunities for students preparing to embark on their careers.

"During my nearly 45-year business career, my logistics degree from UT has opened many doors for me around the world," Newsome said. "I am very proud of the work done by Chad Autry and the supply chain management faculty to build one of the best supply chain programs in the country. It is a great honor to be a small part of that, and I look forward to a continued association with the Haslam and the university."

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- FEB. 5, 2020 -- Two significant S.C. Ports Authority projects received recognition during the prestigious 2020 Engineering Excellence Awards for their innovative, creative and environmentally focused approaches to engineering.

The awards, given by the American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina, honor the year's most outstanding engineering accomplishments.

S.C. Ports Authority and Collins Engineers Inc. received the Engineering Excellence Award in the Environmental Category for their joint work on the Drum Island Marsh Restoration Project.

S.C. Ports Authority and Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering received the State Finalist -- Engineering Excellence Award in the Transportation Category for their joint work on the Wando Welch Terminal Traffic Flow Improvements Phase 2 Project.

"Our engineering and operations teammates are creative problem solvers and innovative thinkers who dedicate themselves to their jobs every day and still find time to push the envelope with impressive environmental projects and infrastructure solutions," S.C. Ports COO Barbara Melvin said. "These projects not only positively impact our operations, which are busier than ever, but they also benefit the broader community through restored wetlands and improved traffic flow. It is truly a great privilege to work with this team and our project partners."

Judges rank the projects based on their innovative applications, complexity, future value to the engineering profession, benefits to the public and environment, and the ability to meet the client's needs.

The awardees were honored during a dinner Tuesday night in Columbia at the USC Alumni Center.

Drum Island Marsh Restoration -- Engineering Excellence Award

The American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina recognized the Drum Island Marsh Restoration Project for engineering excellence in the environmental category.

S.C. Ports Authority created 22 acres of salt marsh in the middle of Charleston Harbor, fulfilling its environmental commitment to revert land on the southern end of Drum Island back into salt marsh. Collins Engineers Inc. was the main consultant and provided coastal and marine engineering services to S.C. Ports.

The site posed numerous challenges, including being surrounded by water and needing significant site grading to create a new marsh habitat on the unused island. Work involved site grading and planting more than 100,000 native species of marsh vegetation to restore the area to its natural state. The project was completed in July 2019.

The resulting salt marsh improves water quality, supports surrounding ecosystems, and provides a nursery habitat for juvenile fish species and other marine life.

The award submission said that "the project is arguably the most visible marsh restoration project completed to date."

"Anyone walking or biking the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge can watch these plants grow over time," said Mark Messersmith, S.C. Ports Authority's Permitting Manager. "The restoration of this salt marsh is significant to the Charleston Harbor watershed and is an important environmental commitment of the Port. We are grateful to all our project partners for working so diligently to make this endeavor a success."

L-J Inc. was the prime contractor for the project. Cape Romain Contractors and EarthBalance were subcontractors. Newkirk Environmental Inc., Water Environment Consultants, Applied Technology & Management, Insight Group, and Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson Inc. also worked as consultants on the project.

Wando Welch Terminal Traffic Flow Improvements -- State Finalist -- Engineering Excellence Award

The American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina recognized the Wando Welch Terminal Traffic Flow Improvements Phase 2 Project for engineering excellence in the transportation category.

S.C. Ports Authority saw a need to improve traffic patterns at Wando Welch Terminal to handle the amount of daily traffic, and in early 2017, the engineering and operations teams began working on the project.

Work entailed replacing a four-lane straight roadway with wider lanes and creating a roundabout for truck drivers to use. The roundabout, which has five exits, enables the continuous flow of traffic in and out of the terminal by eliminating left turns.

The roundabout had to be large enough to accommodate up to 8,000 trucks carrying containers each day, as well as trucks hauling 53-foot-long trailers.

With an outer diameter of 220 feet, it now stands as the largest roundabout in the state. Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering served as the lead design firm responsible for providing the innovative design concepts.

Banks Construction Co. was the prime contractor on the $20 million project. Construction posed a great challenge as it occurred within the second busiest container terminal on the East Coast and while S.C. Ports experienced record cargo growth.

Ed Stehmeyer, S.C. Ports' Project Manager and Design Manager, said the complex project required great creativity and coordination with project partners. The roundabout opened in August 2019.

"The roundabout greatly benefits our operations by improving safety, reducing congestion and increasing efficiency, ultimately enabling S.C. Ports to handle increasing cargo volumes," Stehmeyer said. "The smooth traffic flow also benefits truck drivers, who rely on our efficiently run terminals to make a living, as well as the surrounding communities, who rely on us to be a good neighbor. This infrastructure enhancement prepares us well for future growth."

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- JAN. 31, 2020 -- The Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal is taking shape along the Cooper River as S.C. Ports Authority prepares to open the new container terminal in March 2021.

S.C. Ports celebrated today the structural completion of the terminal's new operations building. More than 300 people -- contractors, port employees, elected leaders and community members -- cheered as a steel beam and tree were placed atop the steel structure as part of a traditional "topping out" ceremony.

The 34,853-square-foot building, built by Samet Corp., will have offices, meeting spaces, crane operator rest and training areas, and a full-service kitchen, as well as the backup power required to maintain critical infrastructure in the event of a power outage.

Sen. Hugh K. Leatherman, the terminal's namesake, came to celebrate the construction milestone of the terminal's first and largest building.

"S.C. Ports has seen tremendous growth over the past decade as bigger cargo ships continually call on the Port of Charleston. The Port has long been the economic engine of South Carolina, and with the new terminal, this will only increase," Leatherman said. "The container terminal will expand operations and support high-paying jobs for our citizens. It gives me great pride to see the construction progress, and I look forward to the positive impact its completion will have on our state for generations to come."

The Leatherman Terminal sits on the former Navy Base in North Charleston. The 134-acre Phase One will have a 1,400-foot wharf that can accommodate up to 19,000-TEU vessels.

The $1 billion investment comes at a time when S.C. Ports needs additional capacity to handle the larger ships calling on the Port of Charleston. The Port has doubled container volumes over the past decade and records significant cargo growth year-over-year.

The first phase of the Leatherman Terminal provides 700,000 TEUs of additional capacity, ensuring economic growth for South Carolina as more shippers seek access to the booming Southeast market.

"In a little more than a year, ships will call on the country's newest container terminal," S.C. Ports Authority president and CEO Jim Newsome said. "The opening of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in March 2021 will greatly enhance our cargo capacity and big-ship capability. Our strategic investments and years of hard work are coming to fruition at just the right time as more ships call on the East Coast. This new terminal propels S.C. Ports into the future."

The state-of-the-art facility will boast both electric and hybrid equipment that will ensure efficient operations while reducing emissions. Phase One will house the tallest ship-to-shore (STS) cranes at the Port of Charleston with five cranes with 169-foot lift height, as well as 25 new hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes, all set to arrive this year.

The Leatherman Terminal will be built in phases over the next decade, based on market demand. At full build-out, the 286-acre terminal will have three berths capable of handling 2.4 million TEUs of cargo, doubling the port's existing throughput capacity.

A dedicated Port Access Road will connect the Leatherman Terminal to Interstate 26, and a private drayage road will connect the terminal to the future Intermodal Container Transfer Facility, a rail-served cargo yard about a mile away. Truck drivers will use only these routes to ferry containers to and from the terminal.

The site development and terminal construction is a massive project undertaken by S.C. Ports' engineering team and numerous contractors, including HDR Inc. for construction management and inspection; Banks Construction Co. for site development; Samet Corporation for construction of buildings and canopies; Cape Romain/McLean A Joint Venture for wharf construction; and Cape Romain Contractors Inc. for bridge construction.

"Our engineering team and contracting partners have been working diligently to complete the construction of Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal," said Walter Lagarenne, S.C. Ports' Director of Engineering and Permitting. "Phase One work is progressing well, and the terminal is on track to welcome container ships, including ultra-large container ship class vessels, to the new 1,400-foot wharf in March 2021."

Notable quotes:

"S.C. Ports is one of South Carolina's most powerful economic engines, making a $63.4 billion annual economic impact on our state. The new Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal is a crucial component to continuing the port's growth, and we eagerly await the opening of the terminal and the prosperity it will bring to South Carolina." -- Gov. Henry McMaster

"It is thrilling to see the long-planned Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal becoming a reality. This significant infrastructure project would not be possible without the support of Gov. Henry McMaster and the S.C. Legislature. I especially want to thank Sen. Leatherman for his steadfast support and efforts to further investment in our state, ensuring South Carolina remains globally competitive." -- S.C. Ports Authority Board Chairman Bill Stern

"Samet Corporation feels proud to have a role in the construction of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal and we're honored to be part of what this project represents. While there are many exciting details to the project, we are most appreciative of the great working relationship our team has forged with S.C. Ports Authority and the many consultants and trade partners that are working in tandem to expeditiously deliver this exciting new terminal for the region." -- Samet Corp. CEO Arthur Samet

"HDR is honored to be a part of the team that is building the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal by providing construction management services. Construction is progressing well on the first phase of the container terminal, and we are eager to see operations launch early next year. We are grateful to work with S.C. Ports Authority and great project partners on this historic project, which will benefit the Lowcountry for decades to come." -- HDR Vice President David Kinard

"Our team at Banks Construction is proud to partner with S.C. Ports Authority and the other contractors to build the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal. It has been exciting to see the significant progress as the site transitions into a state-of-the-art container terminal. This significant infrastructure project will bring in jobs and investment to the region, and we are thrilled to be a part of it." -- Banks Construction CEO Reid Banks

Fast facts -- materials used for Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal:

• 4.15 million cubic yards of sand fill.
• 4.13 million tons of stone, most of which was delivered via barges and ships, keeping roughly 470,000 trucks off Lowcountry roads.
• 6,348 miles of wick drains installed, which could stretch from Charleston to Hawaii and still have 1,500 miles of material remaining.
• 130 miles of piles installed.
• Nearly 5 million pounds of reinforcing steel.
• Over 125 miles of conduit placed underground, which could run from Charleston to Columbia.
• Over 200 miles of cable, which could run from Charleston to Greenville.
• Over 105,000 cubic yards of concrete placed, which could fill 2,400 containers.
• Over 440,000 pounds of structural steel installed with over 6,000 structural steel bolts.
• Over 192,000 tons of asphalt.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC -- JAN. 30, 2020 -- S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome will be inducted into the 2020 International Maritime Hall of Fame.

The Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey named Newsome as one of five global shipping leaders to be inducted into the prestigious hall of fame this year.

Edward Kelly, the maritime association's executive director, said inductees had "won the respect of the international shipping community based on their successes and professionalism."

"These industry leaders represent a broad spectrum of the global shipping industry and are deserving of this distinguished honor," Kelly said.

2020 Inductees:

• Jim Newsome, president and CEO, South Carolina Ports Authority, Charleston, S.C.
• Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO, Celebrity Cruises Inc., Miami, Fla.
• James R. Mara, president emeritus, Metropolitan Marine Maintenance Contractors' Association, Rutherford, N.J.
• Dr. Nikolas P. Tsakos, president and CEO, Tsakos Energy Navigation Corp., Athens, Greece
• Lois K. Zabrocky, president and CEO, International Seaways Inc., New York City

Newsome has served as president and CEO of S.C. Ports for the past decade. During his tenure, he has successfully pursued vital infrastructure projects, significantly grown port operations and doubled cargo volumes. He has worked to ensure the Port of Charleston remains globally competitive and a top 10 U.S. container port.

S.C. Ports is now known as one of the most efficient ports in the country and was recently ranked as one of the Best Places to Work in South Carolina.

"Jim leads S.C. Ports with great vision, decisiveness and enthusiasm," S.C. Ports COO Barbara Melvin said. "One of his best assets is recognizing talent in his team members and entrusting them to lead alongside him to further strategic initiatives. Our Port has grown immensely under his leadership, leading to job creation and economic growth around the state."

Newsome is the longest serving head of a major container port in the U.S. Before assuming the helm of S.C. Ports Authority in 2009, he was the president of Hapag-Lloyd (America) Inc. Prior to joining Hapag-Lloyd in 1997, Newsome was with Nedlloyd Lines from 1987 to 1997.

Newsome received his bachelor's degree in transportation and logistics and his MBA from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He remains very involved with the University of Tennessee by mentoring students in the Global Supply Chain Institute in the Haslam College of Business. He serves on the Dean's Advisory Council of the University of Tennessee Haslam School of Business. He also established the Mr. and Mrs. James I Newsome Jr. Scholarship for supply chain management students.

He was recently honored by the university with the Distinguished Service Award for his exemplary contributions to both the field and the Haslam College of Business.

Newsome has received numerous additional awards and honors, including the 2019 DC Velocity Logistics "Rainmaker" Award and the 2020 South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance's Roger Milliken Defender of Manufacturing Award. In 2010, Newsome received the prestigious Containerization and Intermodal Institute's Connie Award for significant contributions in the field of container and intermodal transportation.

The 2020 International Maritime Hall of Fame inductees will be honored during the 27th annual awards dinner on May 13 at the Grand Hyatt in New York City.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit www.scspa.com.