News Entries Archive - Page 27 of 73

Charleston Harbor Deepening Project Progresses with House Water Resources Development Act Passage

CHARLESTON, SC - September 28, 2016 - Today's passage of H.5303, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016 by the U.S. House of Representatives, moves the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project closer to securing the authorization necessary to begin construction.

"We applaud the House of Representatives for making this critical legislation a priority before the lame duck session," said Jim Newsome, SCPA President and CEO. "The entire South Carolina Delegation has worked diligently to ensure the bill moves forward in order to enable the project to begin construction next year. Thanks to their support, we are well-positioned to be the deepest harbor on the East Coast by the end of the decade."

H.5303 passed with a vote of 399-25. A conference committee will now be formed to work through the differences between the House and Senate versions during the Congressional recess.

"Passage of this bill by the House represents another hurdle cleared for Charleston Harbor Deepening," said SCPA Board Chairman Pat McKinney. "We are deeply appreciative of our entire delegation's efforts. This milestone is the result of years of hard work and ensures our Port's world-class deepening project remains on track."

The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project was formally recommended for Congressional authorization in January with the issuance of the Record of Decision by the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works). The project has moved expeditiously through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers SMART Planning process and received strong support by all levels of government. In 2012 the S.C. General Assembly set aside $300 million for the state share of the project, and it was expedited by the Administration as a "We Can't Wait" initiative.

"Today's action in the House is tremendous news, and I congratulate our delegation for their tireless efforts on behalf of the Port and the entire state," said Senator Larry Grooms, SC Review and Oversight Commission on the SCPA Chairman.

Upon completion, the project will deepen the Charleston Harbor to 54 feet at the entrance channel and 52 feet in the harbor.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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.

U.S. Senate WRDA Passage Moves Charleston Harbor Deepening Project Closer to Construction

CHARLESTON, SC - September 15, 2016 - Today the U.S. Senate passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016, a significant milestone that moves the 52-foot Charleston Harbor Deepening Project to the U.S. House of Representatives for final authorization to begin construction.

"WRDA is critical legislation for port and port-related infrastructure modernization projects across the country, and we are grateful to Senators Graham and Scott for their unwavering support of its passage," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "We are extremely pleased that the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project will now move forward to the House for final authorization. Congressional approval will allow project construction to begin, ensuring the Port remains on track to deliver all of the capabilities needed of a modern harbor by the end of the decade."

The Senate passed the bill 95-3 with nearly unanimous bipartisan support. From a national perspective, the legislation includes critical authorizations necessary for the U.S. to compete in the global marketplace as well as strengthens floodwater protections of coastal and inland communities.

"Our entire delegation recognizes the importance of this bill as the final hurdle for Charleston Harbor Deepening," said SCPA Board Chairman Pat McKinney. "We applaud their continued dedication and focus on economic growth in South Carolina by helping our port system remain competitive."

The House bill is expected to receive strong support from a South Carolina delegation united in their support of the project.

"We are encouraged by the Senate's passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2016, which includes authorization of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project to 52 feet. The South Carolina Ports Authority's ability to handle New Panamax vessels is critical to businesses large and small across our state and region and vital to the nation's economy. We look forward to working with House Leadership, Chairman Shuster, and Ranking Member DeFazio in order to optimize debate time on the floor and look forward to the passage of a WRDA bill this Congress," said South Carolina Congressmen Mark Sanford (SC-1), Joe Wilson (SC-2), Jeff Duncan (SC-3), Trey Gowdy (SC-4), Mick Mulvaney (SC-5), Jim Clyburn (SC-6) and Tom Rice (SC-7) in a joint statement.

Efforts to deepen the Charleston Harbor began in 2012, and the project progressed quickly as the first feasibility study completed entirely through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers SMART Planning process. The USACE's original estimate of seven years and $20 million dollars for the study and associated environmental reviews and permits was nearly cut in half to four years and $11 million as a result of the new program, as well as collaboration with state and federal partner agencies. It received its Chief's Report in just four years. Most recently, the project received its Record of Decision by the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) in January and has since awaited authorization through WRDA.

"This is good news for our state and another step towards final authorization of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project," said Gov. Nikki Haley. "We will continue working with our federal delegation, state leaders and members of the General Assembly to deepen Charleston's port, as the success of this project is vital to South Carolina building on the record-breaking economic development momentum we've seen over the last five years. I urge Speaker Ryan and House Leadership to continue this momentum and work towards adopting a WRDA bill before their next recess period."

"The Senate's action today is incredibly positive news for the Port and the entire state," said Senator Larry Grooms, SC Review and Oversight Commission on the SCPA Chairman. "This world-class deepening project will ensure our Port remains well-positioned for future growth. I congratulate Senators Graham and Scott for their efforts, and encourage the U.S. House to bring this critical infrastructure bill across the finish line."

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer, handling international commerce valued at more than $63 billion annually while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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 https://scspa.com/

SC Ports Authority Posts Record August Container Volume

CHARLESTON, SC - SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 - On the heels of today's State of the Port, South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) reported its strongest August container volumes on record.

SCPA handled 180,153 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in August, a year-over-year increase of 5.6 percent. Previously, SCPA's strongest August on record was 170,528 TEUs handled in 2015. With 357,420 TEUs moved during the first two months of the 2017 fiscal year, the Port's container volume is up 3.4 percent.

As measured in pier containers, or boxes handled, SCPA also broke previous August volume records by moving 101,125 boxes last month. Fiscal year-to-date pier container volume is up 3 percent, with 201,492 boxes handled since the year began in July.

"August was a stronger month for the Port, particularly in loaded container volume," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "I expect to see similar growth over the next few months, as the fall is a traditionally strong season."

In non-containerized cargo, SCPA handled 56,744 pier tons in August. Fiscal year to date, Charleston has handled 127,518 tons of breakbulk cargo across its docks.

August also marked a record month for Inland Port Greer, with 9,392 rail moves handled during the month. Fiscal year-to-date volumes are up 12 percent compared to the same period last year, with 16,695 rail moves in July and August.

Board Action

The Board approved a construction contract for a new refrigerated container service area at the Wando Welch Terminal. Additional capacity is necessary to accommodate SCPA's growing refrigerated cargo business, which has increased 58 percent since 2011.

Community Giving Grants

Last week SCPA announced $85,000 in grants to 49 charitable organizations through its annual Community Giving Program. The program provides grant support in regions where SCPA operates in order to positively impact maritime commerce, economic development, environmental awareness and community outreach.

This year's announcement marks the highest amount of grant funds ever awarded by SCPA. In addition to numerous grants of $1,000 and $2,500, three organizations received $5,000 awards: Charleston Waterkeeper, Chucktown Squash Scholars and Team Backpack Journalists.

"There is great pride in the Port's Community Giving Program, both in the selection of the grants and the ongoing relationships formed with recipients," said Pat McKinney, SCPA Board Chairman. "This program helps fulfill the Port's mission to positively impact the communities across the state where we operate."

In addition to the new awards, SCPA released the following results of outcomes surveys completed by last year's 42 grant recipients, who collectively received $81,000 in funding:

8,924 students participated in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) activities
Over 7,000 meals provided to senior citizens living at or below the poverty level
13 high-need schools received support for hunger-relief programs
618,138 people educated about environmental sustainability
4,233 books distributed to improve academic performance or skills
600 books distributed to provide counseling
77 students completed career readiness programs

FY2017 marks the fourth year of the annual program. Click to view a full list of this year's grant recipients.

About South Carolina Ports Authority

Newsome's State of the Port: Growth, Modernization and Abundant Opportunity Ahead for SC Ports

CHARLESTON, SC -- SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 -- Today South Carolina Ports Authority president and CEO Jim Newsome's State of the Port focused on growth, modernization and the abundant opportunities ahead for South Carolina's public port system.

In his eighth address at the annual event hosted by the Propeller Club of Charleston, Newsome reviewed the Port's financial and volume gains in recent years and the investments required for SCPA to meet the changing needs of the shipping industry.

SCPA posted increases in both containerized and breakbulk cargo at its Charleston facilities in fiscal year 2016 amid challenges in the world economy. The Port's container volume grew 1.4 percent fiscal year over year, and non-containerized cargo handled in Charleston exceeded planned tonnage by 33 percent. Continued growth of intermodal rail drove record-setting volumes at Inland Port Greer, which handled 91,698 rail moves in FY2016.

"The Port achieved growth of volumes and operating earnings in spite of an overall slowing of world trade," Newsome said. "We also accomplished significant progress on numerous critical projects -- modernization of the Wando Welch Terminal wharf, and implementation of an advanced gate system that enables us to efficiently handle that facility's growing cargo volumes; continued fill activity and other construction work on the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal; and enhancements to refrigerated cargo handling capabilities at both container terminals."

In the year ahead, Newsome expects the Southeastern port market to continue to enjoy strong volume growth relative to the overall U.S. port market, supported by foreign-direct investment in manufacturing as well as a steadily increasing consumer market.

For SCPA, the automotive industry will remain a bright spot both in the coming fiscal year and long-term, with the opening of the Volvo North America plant. Establishment of retail distribution centers, such as the Dollar Tree facility in Cowpens, will also be a driver of growth enabled by the Port's inland facilities. SCPA will build upon the success of Inland Port Greer with the construction a second inland facility in Dillon, South Carolina, that will open by the end of 2017.

Despite financial uncertainty in the container shipping industry and further consolidation of major carriers, Newsome said big ships remain the catalyst for port investment and will drive the focus of SCPA's short and long-term projects.

"Today 16 of 26 weekly container services calling the Port of Charleston utilize New Panamax vessels, and we expect to see others upsized in the future," Newsome said. "Top 10 ports must make significant investments to prepare facilities to serve these bigger ships, including taller cranes and stronger terminal infrastructure, as well as harbor deepening projects. We have worked diligently to ensure that the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project to 52 feet remains on track to deliver all of the capabilities needed of a modern harbor by the end of the decade."

Looking ahead, Newsome said SCPA's major priorities are investment, terminal optimization and cargo base expansion. He predicted another fiscal year of record capital investments in the Port, and together SCPA and the state of South Carolina will invest $2.2 billion over ten years to deliver projects critical to the Port's competitiveness.

As the Port prepares to commission two new ship-to-shore cranes this fall, two additional cranes have been ordered and plans are underway to raise four more cranes at the Wando Terminal. In addition, a new terminal operating system and improved land utilization top Newsome's plans to ensure SCPA can efficiently work two 14,000 TEU vessels simultaneously.

Vital to the Port's ability to sustain the volumes and revenue required for such investments is the expansion of its cargo base. In addition to the large cargo volumes driven by manufacturing, private sector investment in near-port facilities also plays a key role in SCPA's growth. The Port is seeing the benefits of such facilities to serve specialized markets, including cold chain and plastics.

"We must be innovative to attract new types of cargo," Newsome said. "While there are challenges ahead, we are making significant progress in all the fundamental areas that will drive our success. There is no question that global businesses will locate near global ports, bringing with them promising opportunity for our state and region. SCPA is a strong partner for business."

Newsome concluded his remarks with an inward look at SCPA's organizational approach to meeting industry needs. With the adoption of new vision and values as part of a culture change initiative, SCPA's nearly 500 employees have ownership of the Port's future.

"SCPA has a talented workforce and maritime community, and they are critical components of our success," Newsome said. "We provide a good product, and our customers can rely on us to keep their freight moving."

Click to view Jim Newsome's State of the Port presentation, or watch it on YouTube.

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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 South Carolina Ports, please visit https://scspa.com/

SC Ports Authority Finalizes Plans to Construct Second Inland Port

CHARLESTON, SC - September 12, 2016 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority announced plans to develop a second inland port in Dillon, South Carolina to support growth of intermodal container volumes and expand access to markets in neighboring states and throughout the Northeast and Midwest.

"Inland Port Dillon will be a great diversification of our state's logistics footprint," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "Building intermodal infrastructure in our state goes hand-in-hand with the significant investment we are making to our port facilities in Charleston. This is an exciting opportunity for SCPA."

At a meeting today, the SCPA Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the Port to move forward with construction of the terminal in the Carolinas I-95 Mega Site. SCPA will break ground on the new terminal in the first quarter of 2017 and plans to open the facility by the end of the year.

vSelective development of inland infrastructure enables freight to move more easily and is critical to the growth of the Port," Newsome said. "We are grateful for the support of our local partners, including Marlboro Electric Cooperative, to make this project possible and are already working with a number of interested companies who are potential customers of the facility."

Located in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, the site was selected for its proximity to I-95, a critical transportation artery in the Southeast, as well as a significant base of existing Port users in the area that represent base cargo opportunities for the facility.

"Inland Port Greer has allowed the Port to increase the cargo volumes moved by intermodal rail and become a key catalyst for economic development in the Upstate," said Pat McKinney, SCPA Board Chairman. "We are confident that Inland Port Dillon will realize similar benefits for the Port and our customers, increase local business opportunities and provide solid job growth. We appreciate the involvement and support of the state and federal agencies assisting the Port to make this project a reality."

The site is served by an existing CSX mainline, which provides overnight access to the Port of Charleston. With 166 percent growth of SCPA's intermodal volume since 2011, demand for such inland facilities has increased rapidly.

"Expanding intermodal service in South Carolina through Inland Port Dillon will create a competitive advantage for area businesses by lowering transportation costs and providing greater access to domestic and international markets," said Dean Piacente, CSX Vice President, Intermodal. "This new facility will build on the state of South Carolina's already strong freight rail network supporting continued business growth and job creation."

A study of the market potential and proposed terminal layout was completed since the SCPA first announced its consideration of the Dillon site in April. The Port will now move into the design phase of the project, with the initial terminal build out expected to accommodate 45,000 containers annually.

Comments from the Dillon Region's Elected Leaders

"Inland Port Dillon will expand opportunity and bring industrial diversity to the Pee Dee region and beyond. I'd like to thank the South Carolina Ports Authority for their continued leadership and efforts to advance this project, which will create much-needed jobs and have a huge impact on our economy." United States Congressman Tom Rice

"Today's announcement is another step forward in ensuring the Port of Charleston is the preferred port on the East Coast. The positive ripple effects on businesses as a result of an inland port in Dillon will drive economic growth around the region. I look forward to seeing the facility strengthen our Port?s competitiveness and improve logistics for South Carolina companies." Senator Hugh K. Leatherman, Sr., President Pro Tempore and Executive Committee, North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA)

"The opportunity for job creation and economic growth driven by this facility in our region cannot be overstated. This is an extremely significant day for residents of Dillon and surrounding areas, and I applaud the Ports Authority for making this a reality." South Carolina Senator Kent Williams

"I am pleased with today's announcement on such an important project for the Pee Dee. Providing increased inland infrastructure will create industry growth and provide job opportunities that will be beneficial to the region and the state." South Carolina Representative Jackie E. 'Coach' Hayes

"According to a recent economic impact study, port-related jobs pay 40 percent higher than the statewide average. We are excited that Dillon is the site of the next Inland Port and look forward to building a strong partnership with the South Carolina Ports Authority. Today is a great day for Dillon and our region." - Dillon County Council Chairman T.F. Finklea

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state?s General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer, handling international commerce valued at more than $63 billion annually while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast?s deepest port, SCPA is the 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 https://scspa.com/

SC Ports Authority Community Giving Program Awards $85,000 in Grants

CHARLESTON, SC - September 8, 2016 - Today the South Carolina Ports Authority announced $85,000 in grants to 49 charitable organizations through its annual Community Giving Program. The program provides grant support in regions where SCPA operates in order to positively impact maritime commerce, economic development, environmental awareness and community outreach.

"The Port's mission extends well beyond our gates," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "As we grow in our role as an economic development engine for the state, so does our commitment to be a strong community partner and neighbor. The organizations selected to receive grant funds will support critical programs and initiatives across the state."

At $85,000, this year's grants represent the most funding ever awarded by the Port. The program includes grants of $5,000, $2,500 and $1,000.

Recipients of a $5,000 grant included Charleston Waterkeeper, Chucktown Squash Scholars and Team Backpack Journalists.

Charleston Waterkeeper, whose mission is to protect and restore Charleston's waterways for our community and for future generations, will use the grant funds to conduct six weeks of sample analysis as part of their Recreational Water Quality Monitoring Program.

Chucktown Squash Scholars is a year-round sports-based youth development organization that uses the sport of squash, in combination with academic tutoring, fitness education, civic engagement and mentoring to make a difference in the lives of Charleston's under-served youth population. SCPA grant funds will provide support and services for under-served students and families throughout the Charleston community.

Team Backpack Journalists is an after-school STEAM-based (science, technology, engineering, art and math) program that provides students with real- world journalism experiences, including the process of writing, storytelling, and filming making. The program will utilize the grant for the Cars & Parts to the Seaport Project in Charleston County School District Title One schools. Students will explore the process of manufacturing cars and how they are shipped through the port to customers around the world.

Other recipients earned $2,500 and $1,000 grants for numerous programs and efforts, including mentoring, free books and STEAM-based education; emergency assistance and community health; and economic and environmental sustainability.

Grant recipients include:

American Red Cross

Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired - Charleston

Be A Mentor

BEGIN WITH BOOKS program of Palmetto Project

Camp Happy Days

Camp Rise Above

Charleston Habitat for Humanity

Charleston Port & Seafarers' Society

Charleston Symphony Orchestra

City of Greer

Communities In Schools

Communities In Schools of Greenville County, Inc.

Community Pride, Inc. of Charleston County

Corpus Callosum

Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center

Eagle Harbor, Inc

Earth Heart Growers

East Cooper Meals on Wheels

Engaging Creative Minds

Friends of Coastal South Carolina

Greer Relief & Resources Agency

Harvest Hope Food Bank

Hospice and Palliative Care Foundation

I Heart Hungry Kids

Jasper County First Steps

Junior Achievement of Greater South Carolina

Loving America Street

Lowcountry Food Bank

LowCountry Habitat for Humanity

Lowcountry Maritime Society

Metanoia

Reach Out and Read Carolinas

Reading Partners Charleston

Rebuild Upstate

South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Maritime Museum

The Charleston Police Fund

The Children's Security Blanket

The Sustainability Institute

The Village Group

Trident Literacy Association

Upcountry History Museum-Furman University

USS Yorktown Foundation

Water Mission

WINGS for kids

YouthBASE

Above: $5,000 Community Giving grant recipient Charleston Waterkeeper will utilize funds to administer six weeks of sample analysis as part of the Recreational Water Quality Monitoring Program.

Fiscal Year 2016 Community Giving Impact

Community Giving grant recipients must complete an outcomes survey at the end of the fiscal year before they can apply for the new giving cycle. The survey allows the Port to measure the positive lasting impacts of the grant program and fulfill its mission to be a strong community partner. In the previous giving cycle, $81,000 in grants was awarded to 42 charitable organizations. Impacts of the funding include:

Over 10,000 students across the state benefitted from Community Giving grants
8,924 students participated in STEAM activities
Over 7,000 meals provided to senior citizens living at or below the poverty level
13 high-need schools received support for hunger-relief programs
618,138 people educated about environmental sustainability
4,233 books distributed to improve academic performance or skills
600 books distributed to provide counseling
77 students completed career readiness programs

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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.

SC Ports Authority Handles Largest Container Ship

CHARLESTON, SC - August 30, 2016 - Yesterday evening the South Carolina Ports Authority welcomed the APL Yangshan, the largest container ship ever to call the Port of Charleston.

"The deployment of New Panamax vessels to the East Coast trade marks a new era," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "Today 16 of Charleston's 26 weekly calls are handled by vessels 5,000 TEUs or larger, and we expect to handle our first 14,000 TEU vessel call later this year. As the deepest harbor in the Southeast, Charleston is well-prepared to provide the depth as well as the capacity and infrastructure necessary for efficiently handling big ships."

The Yangshan, which measures 1,140 feet long and 148 feet wide, can transport up to 10,700 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). It is deployed on the China East Coast "CEC" weekly vessel service via the Suez Canal.

The Yangshan's milestone visit comes on the heels of the arrival of two new cranes last month, boosting big-ship handling capabilities at SCPA's Wando Welch Terminal. The cranes, which offer 155 feet of lift height from the dock, are expected to be operational by December 2016. By December of next year, two additional cranes of this height will be delivered to the Wando Terminal in conjunction with the completion of a $44 million project to modernize and strengthen the terminal wharf.

The Yangshan departed Charleston for a call in Norfolk before it transits to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Charleston will receive the next vessel of this size, the APL Barcelona, in early September.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity.?Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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.

SC Ports Authority Posts Fiscal Year Operating Earnings of $39 Million

CHARLESTON, SC - August 17, 2016 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority reported 2016 fiscal year-end operating earnings of $39 million, revenues of $211 million and operating expenses of $172 million.

"The Port closed the FY2016 books with solid financials, reflecting our commitment to achieving the necessary performance to support our aggressive capital investment plan," said SCPA Board Chairman Pat McKinney.

The positive financial report comes on the heels of FY2016 container volume growth reported last month. SCPA handled 1.9 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during the period, an increase of 1.4 percent over the previous fiscal year. "With modest container volume growth in spite of a tepid world economy and operating earnings up over last year, SCPA is well-positioned to continue moving forward with key strategic projects and above-market growth," said SCPA president and CEO Jim Newsome.

July Volumes
SCPA's 2017 fiscal year began in July with a TEU volume increase of 1.2 percent above the same month last year. The Port handled 177,265 TEUs in July, compared to 175,223 in July 2015.

The Port reported its strongest July on record for pier container volume, or box volume. SCPA handled 100,366 boxes at the Wando Welch and North Charleston terminals, exceeding the previous July record of 99,972 pier containers set in 2005.

"Both loaded import and export volumes were up in July, providing a strong start to fiscal 2017," Newsome said. "We believe in setting ambitious targets and expect this year's volume goals to be achieved through strength in the automotive segment, increases in specialized cargo like refrigerated cargo and plastics, continued expansion of our cargo base and solid fundamentals in the Southeastern port market."

SCPA's non-containerized cargo volumes in Charleston exceeded fiscal year plans last month by 9 percent. Charleston handled 70,773 pier tons of breakbulk cargo in July.

Inland Port Greer handled 7,303 rail moves last month. With 56,875 rail moves calendar year to date, the facility's volumes remain on track to reach 100,000 moves in 2016.

Board Action
The Board approved a contract for design consulting services for the two new ship-to-shore cranes for the Wando Welch Terminal, which are expected to be delivered in December 2017. The Board also approved the purchase of replacement crane spreader bars.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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.

Crane Delivery Signifies South Carolina Ports Authority's Big-Ship Readiness

CHARLESTON, SC - August 8, 2016 - The delivery of two super post-Panamax cranes at South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) on Friday marked a significant milestone in the Port's big ship readiness, to be followed in the coming years by the completion of the Wando Welch wharf project and harbor deepening to 52 feet.

The cranes, produced by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. (ZPMC) in China, provide 155 feet of lift height from the dock to enable SCPA to work larger container cargo ships. The cranes will be located at the Wando Welch Terminal, which is undergoing a $44 million project to strengthen and upgrade the wharf and infrastructure required for handling bigger vessels and cranes. Last month the SCPA Board of Directors approved the purchase of two additional cranes of this size for delivery at the end of 2017, coinciding with the completion of the wharf project.

"The delivery of the new cranes is a milestone for our Port," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "They are integral to our future and represent a big step forward in our strategy to remain competitive in today's big-ship environment. Along with the Wando wharf strengthening project, the cranes will allow us to handle the upsizing of ships following the opening of the Panama Canal expansion in order to continue to meet the needs of our customers and enhance the crane productivity we are known for in the U.S. port industry."

SCPA is already seeing the upsizing of vessels in response to the Panama Canal expansion, and expects to handle its first 14,000 TEU vessel call later this year. Charleston offers the deepest harbor in the Southeast, and upon completion of its deepening project to 52 feet, Charleston will be the deepest harbor on the East Coast.

Beyond harbor deepening, SCPA has a 10-year, $1.3 billion capital expenditure plan that includes the construction of a new container terminal, the Leatherman Terminal, and the modernization of existing facilities and technology. SCPA's extensive investments ensure the Port will be competitive in the future, continuing to provide $53 billion in annual statewide economic impact and securing region's role in economic development and global trade.

About South Carolina Ports Authority

SC Ports Authority Posts 2016 Fiscal Year Volume Increase

Charleston, SC - July 20, 2016 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) reported growth of container volume and breakbulk tonnage at its Charleston facilities and significant increases in rail volume at Inland Port Greer during the 2016 fiscal year that ended June 30.

SCPA handled 1.9 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during FY2016, an increase of 1.4 percent over the previous year. As measured in pier containers, or box volume, nearly 1.1 million boxes moved across the docks of the Port's container terminals in FY2016.

"Container volumes this fiscal year were quite moderate compared to last year, reflective of uncertainty and a general slowing of the world economy," said SCPA president and CEO Jim Newsome. "However, import loaded volumes were five percent ahead of last year, marking a bright spot in volume development, and export loaded volumes were flat despite challenging markets. Our non-containerized cargo segments performed well, and we saw record-setting growth at Inland Port Greer. Looking ahead, the Port expects container volumes to increase as a result of the upsizing of ships with the Panama Canal expansion. Today, 16 of our 26 weekly container ship services now employ vessels larger than could pass through the Panama Canal prior to expansion."

In the non-containerized cargo segment, Charleston breakbulk tonnage exceeded planned volumes by 33 percent with 901,974 pier tons handled during the fiscal year. Roll-on/roll-off cargo within the breakbulk sector grew significantly, and SCPA achieved the highest finished vehicle volume ever handled at the Columbus Street Terminal. In FY2016, 274,426 vehicles moved across SCPA docks, an increase of 8 percent over the previous year.

Inland Port Greer achieved a record year of volumes, with 91,698 rail moves handled during FY2016. The facility's customer base continues to grow, with 57 percent higher volume this fiscal year compared to last year.

"Our port has made significant progress on key projects this fiscal year, including harbor deepening, Leatherman Terminal construction and the Wando Terminal wharf project," said Pat McKinney, SCPA Board Chairman. "We are well-positioned to meet the changing needs of our industry and remain focused on increasing growth while completing the necessary improvements to our facilities and infrastructure to be competitive into the future."

Board Action
The Board authorized a $23.6 million purchase for two new ship-to-shore cranes for the Wando Terminal in order to serve the growing size of vessels calling Charleston. The cranes are scheduled to be commissioned at the end of 2017 in conjunction with the completion of the Wando wharf strengthening project. Next month, the Terminal will receive the first delivery of larger cranes to be commissioned for use this fall.

The Board also approved the purchase of 12 rubber-tired gantry cranes for the Wando Terminal and 12 empty container handlers for Wando, North Charleston Terminal and Inland Port Greer.

About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state's General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport facilities in Charleston, Georgetown and Greer. In 2015 SCPA handled international commerce valued at more than $74 billion while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. An economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 billion annual economic activity. Home to the Southeast's deepest port, SCPA is the 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.

Media Contact:
Erin Dhand
Manager, Corporate Communications and Community Affairs
SC Ports Authority
843-577-8121
edhand@scspa.com

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