Harbor Deepening Archives - SC Ports Authority

Congress, President Trump approve $138 million for Charleston Harbor Deepening Project

CHARLESTON, SC -- DEC. 20, 2019 -- The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project reached a monumental milestone today with President Donald Trump signing the FY2020 Energy and Water Appropriations bill into law, officially greenlighting $138 million for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project.

President Trump included the $138 million in the President's Fiscal Year 2020 budget earlier this year, making the project eligible for direct appropriations by Congress for the first time through the Energy and Water Appropriations bill.

Both the Senate and the House voted to approve the appropriations bill this week as part of the FY2020 funding package, and President Donald Trump signed it into law today.

This enormous step forward means the project is fully funded to completion and on track to achieve a 52-foot depth in 2021.

"This huge infusion of federal funding reflects the importance of ensuring South Carolina has a deep harbor capable of handling mega container ships," S.C. Ports Authority Board Chairman Bill Stern said. "We are grateful to the Trump Administration for recognizing the value a 52-foot depth in Charleston Harbor brings to the Southeast. Thank you to our Congressional delegation, Governor McMaster, and the state and local leaders who have supported this critical project and worked tirelessly to complete it."

S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said a 52-foot deep harbor will accommodate 19,000 twenty-foot equivalent container unit (TEU) vessels drafting 50 feet or more without navigation or tidal restrictions.

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in S.C. history," Newsome said. "A 52-foot deep harbor will ensure we remain competitive for decades to come as bigger ships bring more cargo to S.C. Ports. A thriving port drives economic development and attracts business to the state, which ultimately creates high-paying jobs for South Carolinians. Port operations generate a $63.4 billion economic impact on the state each year and create 1 in 10 S.C. jobs."

In 2012, the S.C. General Assembly set aside $300 million, the full estimated state share of the deepening construction costs. This decision was invaluable in showing the federal government that South Carolina is fully invested in deepening Charleston Harbor.

The project also previously secured $108 million in federal appropriations from the Army Corps of Engineers' work plans, as well as an additional $50 million loan from the state. Construction began in early 2018.

"We have been working diligently on this project with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 10 years and it is great to see construction progressing. This impressive progress would not be possible without the unwavering support from the S.C. Legislature, who set aside funding years ago," S.C. Ports COO Barbara Melvin said. "Today, we are incredibly grateful to our Congressional delegation and the Trump Administration for funding this vital project to completion."

Work is ongoing to deepen the Entrance Channel to 54 feet; deepen a stretch from the Lower Harbor up to Wando Welch Terminal to 52 feet; and widen the turning basin of the Wando River from 1,400 feet to 1,650 feet.

The next contract will achieve a 52-foot depth from Charleston Harbor up the Cooper River to the future Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston, set to open in 2021. The new Leatherman terminal will double port capacity at full build-out.

"The importance of completing the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project cannot be overstated," Newsome said. "We are grateful to all our partners, elected leaders and teammates who are making this a reality."

Accolades from elected leaders:

"For decades, South Carolina's ports system has been the competitive advantage that sets our state's economy apart, and this $138 million investment in the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project ensures that it will remain an advantage for decades more. This news gives every South Carolinian reason to celebrate. Companies around the world will take notice of Team South Carolina's commitment to keeping our infrastructure on the cutting edge, which gives them more confidence in investing here and creating even more jobs for our people." -- Gov. Henry McMaster

"I'm incredibly appreciative of President Trump, as well as my House and Senate colleagues, for making this happen. The $138 million we secured is one of the most important milestones we have met. It will help keep us on track toward project completion. ... Charleston Harbor Deepening is about jobs -- both today and in the future. The Port is the backbone of our state's economy and responsible for over $60 billion in economic activity. Today's news ensures our Port will continue to benefit South Carolina and American business in perpetuity." -- U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham

"I am pleased the bi-partisan appropriations agreement contains $138 million for the deepening of the Charleston Harbor. This funding is critical to help the Port of Charleston become the deepest harbor on the East Coast, allowing post-Panamax vessels to call on the Port of Charleston any time of day. The Port of Charleston is vital to the economy of South Carolina. I am a huge supporter of the Port and I will continue to support efforts to ensure it continues to thrive." -- Congressman Jim Clyburn

"I am grateful to have worked alongside my colleagues in Congress to fight for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. The Port of Charleston supports thousands of businesses and jobs in our state and this federal funding is critical to ensuring the project remains on track, benefiting South Carolina's economy for years to come. I appreciate President Trump for recognizing the importance of this project and the critical role it plays." -- Congressman Joe Wilson

"I'm proud to stand behind a bipartisan government funding bill that invests in critical Lowcountry priorities like the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, averts another shutdown, and fully funds the government for the rest of the fiscal year. The Port of Charleston is a driver of economic development across our entire state and region. This funding will allow the Port of Charleston to reach its full potential and continue to facilitate economic growth across the Lowcountry." -- Congressman Joe Cunningham

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.

President's Budget Allocates $138 Million for Charleston Harbor Deepening Project

CHARLESTON, SC -- March 13, 2019 -- The President's Fiscal Year 2020 Budget includes $138 million for the 52-foot Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, a milestone that provides an opportunity for the project to receive Congressional funding for construction.

"We are grateful to the Trump Administration for recognizing the value of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project with an outstanding allocation in this year's budget," said Bill Stern, SCPA Board Chair. "Federal funding at such a high level reflects the importance of our project to the nation and supports the continued progress of construction to 52 feet."

Inclusion in the President's Budget makes the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project eligible for direct appropriations by Congress through the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill this year.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) recalculation of the benefit-to-cost ratio (BCR) to a new score of 6.4 last fall allowed the project to meet the threshold for consideration in the President's Budget. The new BCR was driven primarily by SCPA's container cargo volume growth, which significantly outpaced estimates used in the original 2012 study.

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is a strategic priority for South Carolina, and it will be a driver of economic development across our state and region well into the future," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "By 2021 SCPA and the state will have invested more than $2 billion in port infrastructure to support the booming growth of both population and manufacturing in the region. Our deepening project answers the need for a Southeastern port to handle 14,000 to 18,000 twenty-foot equivalent container unit (TEU) vessels drafting 50 feet or more without significant depth and other navigation restrictions."

Construction work began on the Charleston Harbor Entrance Channel in February 2018 following the awarding of the first two dredging contracts, totaling $260 million, by USACE. Deepening the harbor up to SCPA's busiest container terminal, the Wando Welch, is expected by early 2021 in what will be a record construction period of only 40 months.

Praise from South Carolina Leaders:

"President Trump's continued commitment to seeing the Port of Charleston reach its full potential will help facilitate unprecedented economic growth in South Carolina. Our state is the top exporter of tires and automobiles in America, and the President's $138 million budget request will ensure that we maintain preeminence on the East Coast and on the international trade stage." -- S.C. Governor Henry McMaster

"I am very pleased that the Fiscal Year 2020 budget request includes over $138 million for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. This is a major step forward. Congress will now have the opportunity to appropriate the funds to ensure this project stays on track to completion. I want to thank President Trump and his leadership for making this happen. There is no doubt that he recognized the critical role our port plays, not only for South Carolina, but for the nation as well." -- U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham

"The importance of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project cannot be understated. Whether it be our tourism sector or our booming manufacturing sector, our ports have been essential in creating the strong economy we all benefit from today. I am glad to hear that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is budgeting $138 million for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project as part of their FY 2020 budget request and look forward to seeing one of our greatest assets continue to bring in revenue for the Palmetto State." -- U.S. Senator Tim Scott

"While the President's budget is dead on arrival, I will work on my side of the Capitol and with our delegation to ensure the final product contains adequate funding for the Charleston Harbor deepening project." -- Congressman Jim Clyburn

"The Port of Charleston received tremendous news with the announcement of the FY 2020 budget request from President Donald Trump. The Port of Charleston supports thousands of businesses and jobs in South Carolina and is critical to our state's growing economy. I join South Carolinians, local leaders, and our Congressional delegation in appreciation for the President's support of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project." -- Congressman Joe Wilson

"South Carolina's port system drives our state economy and the grand opening of the Inland Port Dillon has brought the success of the state's freight industry to the Pee Dee. Investing in this essential infrastructure will continue to connect our economy to new markets, attracting diverse industry and creating jobs across South Carolina. The inclusion of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project in the 2020 Budget shows the Trump Administration's commitment to valuable investments that will create opportunities for generations to come in the Palmetto State." -- Congressman Tom Rice

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is of vital importance in making sure Charleston remains a world-class port, and I am thrilled by today's funding news. It's a clear sign that the Administration recognizes the importance of the Port of Charleston to the entire state of South Carolina." -- Congressman Joe Cunningham

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is critical to ensuring South Carolina remains a world class port supporting world-class companies. Today's game-changing funding in the President's Budget is tremendous news, and along with the significant investment by the State of South Carolina, ensures the project remains on track and benefits the state for generations to come. I thank the Trump Administration for recognizing the importance of this project and thank the South Carolina Congressional Delegation for their continued support." -- Senator Hugh Leatherman, S.C. Senate Finance Committee Chairman

"Our state has supported this project since day one because we see the value of a competitive port to our citizens and businesses. We greatly appreciate President Trump including this significant construction funding for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project and look forward to our state realizing its benefits as soon as possible." -- S.C. Speaker of the House Jay Lucas

"Good news out of Washington is rare, but today is a rare and good day." -- Senator Larry Grooms, Chairman of the S.C. Senate Transportation Committee and the Review and Oversight Commission on the Ports Authority

"We are pleased that strong funding for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project has been included in the Fiscal Year 2020 proposed federal budget. Our State has committed significant bi-partisan support to the Harbor Project, and the prioritization at the federal level will ensure continued economic growth and prosperity for our state, region and nation." -- Senator Nikki Setzler, S.C. Senate Minority Leader

"South Carolina has made significant investments in our world class port system, and it is great news that the President's Budget includes a strong investment by the Federal Government to ensure timely completion and efficient use of state and federal resources. Thank you to the Trump Administration for recognizing the merits of this project." -- Representative Murrell Smith, S.C. House Ways and Means Committee Chairman

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 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 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.

SC Ports Posts Milestone 2018 Fiscal Year

CHARLESTON, SC - July 18, 2018 - South Carolina Ports Authority posted strong performance across multiple business segments in fiscal year 2018, achieving new records for monthly and annual container volumes as well as progress of key capital projects.

"SCPA had an ambitious growth plan for the 2018 fiscal year, and our progress across all business segments is a true accomplishment," said SCPA president and CEO Jim Newsome. "Growth of 3 percent in FY2018 on the heels of 10 percent growth last fiscal year reflects broad-based expansion of the Port's cargo base as well as strong operational performance of our port. Our container volume growth is further driven by the upsizing of vessels, with 18 of SCPA's 26 weekly container services utilizing neo-Panamax ships."

SCPA handled 2.2 million twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) in FY2018, a peak in fiscal year container volume for the Port. March through June marked the highest months of container volume in the Port's history.

In breakbulk, or non-containerized cargo, Charleston handled 760,501 pier tons from July through June. Within the breakbulk business segment, SCPA moved 232,075 vehicles across the docks of the Columbus Street Terminal in FY2018.

Expansion of cargo at Inland Port Greer played a key role in the Port's overall growth. The facility handled 10,184 rail lifts in June for a total 117,812 rail lifts during the fiscal year. Success of Inland Port Greer was a driver in SCPA's decision to open a second facility, Inland Port Dillon, in April.

Terminal Modernization and Capacity

In addition to volume growth, SCPA achieved significant progress of key projects in FY2018. The nearly three-year effort to strengthen and refurbish the Wando Welch Terminal wharf will be completed on July 23, when all three terminal berths return to normal operations in conjunction with the commissioning of the terminal's sixth ship-to-shore (STS) crane with 155 feet of lift height. By the end of the year, two additional cranes of the same size will become operational, with one additional crane to be delivered in late 2019, for the efficient handling of two 13,000 TEU or larger vessels simultaneously.

A $370 million project underway at the Wando Terminal will increase capacity by 700,000 TEUs by the end of 2019. Upon completion, the terminal will offer 13 STS cranes, including nine cranes with 155 feet of lift height; 62 rubber-tired gantry cranes and 23 empty handlers; 3,800 feet of wharf, capable of handling three neo-Panamax ships; an enhanced traffic pattern and 40 gates, including 27 inbound and 13 outbound, for continued efficiency and low turn times; and a new 35-acre chassis yard for the proposed Southern States Chassis Pool.

"SCPA has an aggressive target of 1.3 million pier containers for FY 2019, volume growth that is consistent with our expectations for the further development of the region's cargo base along with the capable infrastructure provided by the Port," Newsome said. "We will continue to closely monitor the development of the multilateral trade and tariff discussions for potential impacts."

Charleston Harbor Deepening

Construction on the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project to 52 feet, which began in February, is well underway with three Great Lakes Dock and Dredge Company dredges currently at work in the Entrance Channel. The next construction contract will be awarded in the fall for dredging the harbor to the Wando Terminal. This contract will include widening the turning basin to 1,650 feet, a benefit that will be realized prior to the slated completion of this construction phase in March 2021.

Cargo Base Expansion

Beyond infrastructure projects, FY2018 also marked successful milestones in the expansion of SCPA's cargo base and the addition of new facilities to serve growing markets.

Frontier Logistics successfully opened a transloading operation on Union Pier Terminal in August to support growth of the Port's plastics and resins business. Frontier has been operating in Charleston since 2011, handling bagging and seabulk transloading for both import and export resins and plastics producers.

SCPA recently closed on the purchase of a nearly 950-acre industrial tract in Ridgeville, South Carolina to support import and export distribution growth. The rail-served site offers nearly 750 developable acres for port-related industry use.

Board Action

At their monthly meeting today, the SCPA Board approved a $53.8 million contract for construction of the wharf structure for Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman, Senior Terminal. The new terminal will open in 2021 to accommodate growth of the Port's containerized cargo business.

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, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 187,200 statewide jobs and generate nearly $53 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 Harbor Deepening Project Receives $49 Million Federal Funding

CHARLESTON, SC - June 11, 2018 - Today the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced $49 million for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project in the Fiscal Year 18 Work Plan, critical funds that will be coupled with financial support from the State of South Carolina to further the progress of deepening the Charleston Harbor to 52 feet.

"This funding is great news for continued construction activities and timely awarding of dredging contracts for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project," said Bill Stern, SCPA Board Chair. "The Port is appreciative to the Trump Administration, Governor McMaster, Senators Graham and Scott and the entire South Carolina congressional delegation for their coordinated efforts to ensure the highest possible funding for the project was included in the Corps Work Plan."

Construction to deepen the Charleston Harbor Entrance Channel began in February following the awarding of the first two dredging contracts, totaling $260 million, by USACE.

"The deepening of the Charleston Harbor is one of the most important strategic priorities for the State of South Carolina," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "The Southeast needs a 52-foot harbor to efficiently handle the large container ships now calling the East Coast. There are four other harbors on our coast at 50 feet of depth, and such large container ships call a network of ports. The deepening of major U.S. ports is a significant element of the overall investment thesis across the port industry nationwide, and by 2021 SCPA and the State will have invested over $2 billion in port infrastructure to support the growth of both population and manufacturing in South Carolina and the Southeast region."

The USACE Work Plan funding, in combination with a $50 million loan from the State, will enable the Charleston Harbor to be deepened to the Wando Welch Terminal by early 2021 in a record construction period of only 40 months. The completion of harbor deepening projects is essential, with multiple 14,000 twenty-foot equivalent container unit (TEU) ship slings calling U.S. East Coast ports today and the strong likelihood that an 18,000 TEU ship service will be deployed by 2019. The ability to fill these large container vessels with heavy export cargo in the Southeast is critical and requires harbors of 50 feet or more in draft to remove significant navigation restrictions. Upon completion of Charleston's deepening, the Inner Harbor will offer 52 feet of depth with a 54-feet deep Entrance Channel.

The project was designated a "New Construction Start" in the USACE Work Plan last year and received Congressional Authorization in December 2016.

Comments from South Carolina Leaders

"The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is critical to ensuring South Carolina remains a world class port supporting world class companies. Today's news, along with the significant investment by the State of South Carolina, ensures the project stays on track. I thank Senator Graham and the entire South Carolina Congressional Delegation for their continued advocacy for this important project." - Senator Hugh Leatherman, S.C. Senate President Pro Tempore

"Our state has supported this project since day one because we see the value of a competitive port to our citizens and businesses. We appreciate the efforts by the South Carolina Congressional Delegation and are encouraged to see the federal government continue to recognize this critical project." - S.C. Speaker of the House Jay Lucas

"Today's funding news is tremendous for the entire state of South Carolina and is the result of broad support at all levels of government. Congratulations to our Congressional delegation for their tireless efforts on behalf of the Port and the entire state. South Carolinians will see the positive impact of our port project for decades to come." - Senator Larry Grooms, Chairman of the S.C. Review and Oversight Commission on the SPA

"This is great news for the Upstate, as well as the entire state. With 50% of port users located in the upstate, the continued progress on the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project will be felt in our region for years to come. We have made significant investments, coupled with an additional loan in this year's pending state budget, and it's encouraging to see the federal government step up." - S.C. Ways and Means Committee Chairman Brian White

Statement from SC Ports Authority CEO Jim Newsome

CHARLESTON, SC - October 30, 2017 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority president and CEO Jim Newsome issued the following statement on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announcing the second dredging contract award for Charleston Harbor Deepening Project:

"The awarding of the second construction contract for dredging the Charleston Harbor Entrance Channel to 54 feet is tremendous news for South Carolina. This multi-year contract, in conjunction with the contract awarded in September, provides for the construction work for the entrance channel to be completed without the potential for delays and is the largest contract ever to be awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Charleston District.

The timely progress of the Charleston Deepening Project would not have been achieved without strong partners in the USACE as well as elected officials on the federal, state and local levels. The decision by the S.C. General Assembly in 2012 to set aside $300 million for construction has been critically important through every milestone and helped Charleston move faster than any other Civil Works project to date. We will continue to work diligently to secure the remaining federal share of the project.

We look forward to seeing dredges in our harbor within the next few months and ultimately the completion of this effort that will make Charleston the deepest harbor on the East Coast at 52 feet. The investment in harbor deepening, as well as the Leatherman Terminal for additional container capacity and multiple other projects to improve our existing and Inland infrastructure, will pay dividends to South Carolina's economy for many years to come."

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 www.scspa.com.

SC Ports Celebrates Big Ship Call, First Harbor Deepening Construction Contract

CHARLESTON, SC - September 14, 2017 - On the heels of the first construction contract for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project being awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), South Carolina Ports Authority welcomed the CMA CGM Theodore Roosevelt, the biggest ship ever to transit the Panama Canal to call U.S. East Coast ports.

"The first dredging contract awarded for harbor deepening is outstanding news for SCPA and the State of South Carolina, and the arrival of the biggest ship ever to call our Port this morning is a timely and visible example of the importance of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "Our harbor will ultimately be the deepest on the East Coast, allowing vessels like the Roosevelt to transit without tidal restriction. Today reaffirms our efforts and investments in terminals and infrastructure to prepare for the big ships being deployed to the East Coast following the Panama Canal expansion and completion of the new Bayonne Bridge."

As announced earlier today by USACE, a $47 million construction contract was awarded to initiate dredging work on the entrance channel, which will be deepened to 54 feet. It is the first of two contracts to be let for entrance channel dredging, which will begin later this year. The main shipping channel will be deepened to 52 feet, offering unfettered access to 13,000-14,000 twenty-foot equivalent container unit (TEU) vessels.

The Roosevelt, a 14,414 TEU vessel, arrived in Charleston this morning with only blue shipping containers visible following a celebratory voyage to the Port of New York and New Jersey for the inauguration of the new Bayonne Bridge. SCPA is expected to handle approximately 3,000 container moves, or 5,200 TEUs, on and off the ship at the Wando Welch Terminal. The Roosevelt is deployed on the weekly OCEAN Alliance South Atlantic Express (SAX) service connecting Charleston with Hong Kong, Yantian, Ningbo and Shanghai via the Panama Canal.

Previously, the largest ship to call Charleston was the 13,208 TEU OOCL France. Today 18 of SCPA's 24 weekly container vessel services are comprised of ships too large to transit the Panama Canal prior to its expansion.

In addition to the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, the Port has been preparing for the deployment of New Panamax vessels to the East Coast with significant upgrades to terminal infrastructure and equipment. A wharf strengthening and modernization project at the Wando Welch Terminal will be completed in the spring of 2018, and the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, the only new permitted container terminal on the East or Gulf Coast, will open in June of 2020.

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 www.scspa.com.

SC Ports 2017 Container Volume Up 13 Percent

CHARLESTON, SC - August 14, 2017 - Today South Carolina Ports Authority announced calendar year-to-date container volume increases of 13 percent and the strongest July on record.

Since the calendar year began, SCPA has handled 1.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), compared to 1.14 million TEUs during the same period last year. The Port moved 182,411 TEUs in July, breaking the previous record of 177,265 TEUs achieved in July 2016.

Last month was also a record July for pier container volume, or box volume. SCPA handled 103,319 boxes at the Wando Welch and North Charleston terminals, exceeding the July 2016 record of 100,366 pier containers.

"SCPA handled record container volumes in July in spite of model year transitions in the automotive industry," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "We look forward to continuing this momentum as fiscal year 2018 progresses and expect to see fairly strong volumes this fall."

In the non-containerized cargo market, Charleston handled 42,420 tons of breakbulk cargo in July. Calendar year to date, the Port has handled 471,961 tons.

Inland Port Greer handled 7,011 rail moves in July, pushing calendar year-to-date volume at the facility 31 percent higher than last year. Since January, 74,700 rail moves were handled compared to 56,870 during the same period in 2016.

Harbor Deepening
Having been named one of six "new start" projects and receiving $17.5 million in construction funding in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Fiscal 2017 Work Plan, the harbor deepening to 52 feet continues to move forward toward construction this fall.

The USACE solicited bids for the Post 45 Charleston Entrance Channel Maintenance and New Work Dredging - Contract One in June, and the apparent low bidder for the contract is Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, LLC, with a bid of $47,197,150. The USACE Charleston District still needs to complete several acquisition steps to verify the acceptability of the bid prior to award of this contract, which is planned for next month. Contract 1 is the smaller of two contracts required to complete the Entrance Channel deepening construction.

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.

Charleston Harbor Deepening Project Receives Construction Funding

CHARLESTON, SC - May 24, 2017 - The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project was named one of six "new starts" and received $17.5 million in construction funding in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Fiscal Year 17 Work Plan released today, allowing construction on the project to begin this fall as scheduled.

Charleston also received $16.1 million in operations and maintenance dollars, which provide for the routine maintenance dredging of the harbor necessary for construction begin. Collectively the funds allocated in the Work Plan allow Charleston to continue moving forward and preparing for construction.

"This is monumental news for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, and we are appreciative to the Trump Administration, Governor McMaster and the entire South Carolina congressional delegation for their efforts to ensure the project was included in the Corps Work Plan," said Pamela Lackey, SCPA Board Chair. "Their unanimous support and tireless efforts continue to move our project forward without delay."

The largest contract for the project will be let this fall, utilizing federal dollars in combination with the $300 million in state funding already set aside for the project.

"The significance of this funding for the timeline of our deepening project cannot be overstated - it is tremendous news for Charleston," said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. "By the end of the decade, we will achieve 52 feet of depth and be the deepest harbor on the East Coast, a depth advantage that will add significant capability in the Southeast, the fastest growing port region in the country. We are grateful for the leadership of our congressional and state delegations and look forward to a continued, productive partnership with the USACE as the project progresses."

The project has moved rapidly through the USACE SMART Planning process. Only six years ago, in May 2011, the project reached its first milestone with a $150,000 allocation in the USACE Work Plan to study the need and justification for the Charleston Harbor to be deepened beyond its current depth of -45 feet.

The Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation Act (WIIN), passed by Congress in December, authorized the Army Corps of Engineers Chief's Report for the construction phase of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. By achieving 52 feet of depth, SCPA will be able to accommodate fully-loaded new-Panamax container ships without tidal restriction.

The project has received strong support by all levels of government. In 2012 the S.C. General Assembly set aside $300 million for the project, and it was expedited by the previous Administration as a "We Can't Wait" initiative.

Comments from Elected Officials and Business Leaders
"South Carolina, the Southeastern region and our nation will enjoy the positive impacts of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project for years to come. Today's news is result of years of hard work and dedication to ensure SCPA will remain a competitive, growing port well into the future," said Senator Hugh Leatherman, S.C. Senate President Pro Tempore.

"Our state has supported this project since day one because we see the value of a competitive port to our citizens and businesses. We celebrate this monumental news for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project and look forward to seeing the Port's continued success," said S.C. Speaker of the House Jay Lucas.

"This is a big deal! Today's funding news is tremendous and reflects years of hard work. Congratulations to South Carolina's delegation for their tireless efforts on behalf of the Port and the entire state. South Carolinians will see the positive impacts of our port project for decades to come," said Senator Larry Grooms, Chairman of the S.C. Review and Oversight Commission on the SCPA.

"Today's news furthers the efforts by our state to ensure the Charleston Harbor is deepened by 2020. The impacts of this competitive advantage for our Port will be felt across the state, particularly by many Upstate businesses that rely on our public port system," said S.C. Ways and Means Chairman Brian White.

"The business community is incredibly grateful that our Congressional delegation has kept the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project on track. With one in eleven jobs tied to the Port's $53 billion annual economic impact, today's announcement is great news for our businesses and gives us another reason to celebrate," said Ted Pitts, President and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

"Our port system is critical to serving the international supply chain of our state's growing manufacturing sector. Thank you to the entire delegation for working so hard to ensure this project is completed," said Lewis Gossett, President and CEO of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance.

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, including career opportunities at all SCPA facilities, please visit www.scspa.com.

Congress Authorizes Charleston Harbor Deepening Project

CHARLESTON, SC - December 10, 2016 - Today, the United States Senate passed S.612, the Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation Act (WIIN), which included Congressional authorization for the 52-foot Charleston Harbor Deepening Project.

"The passage of WIIN marks one of the most significant milestones in the history of the Port of Charleston," said Jim Newsome, SCPA President and CEO. With this important step by Congress, we now turn our attention to inclusion in the President's FY2018 budget, relative to the construction phase of the harbor deepening project. By the end of the decade, we will achieve 52 feet of depth and Charleston will be the deepest harbor on the East Coast. This depth advantage will add significant capability in the fastest growing port region in the U.S., the Southeast. This is vitally important for significant long-term volume growth and the deployment of large container ships. We are extremely grateful to many for their tireless efforts ensuring this bill moves forward; the leadership in the U.S. Congress, specifically Chairman Inhofe of Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Chairman Shuster of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the South Carolina Congressional Delegation, Governor Nikki Haley, and the South Carolina Legislature. We look forward to a continued, productive partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project progresses. Last but certainly not least I would like to acknowledge the efforts of our port staff and specifically Barbara Melvin, our Senior Vice President of Operations and Terminals, who guided this process for us from its inception in 2010 through this authorization."

The WIIN bill authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers Chief's Report for the construction phase of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, ensuring the project can remain on schedule. By achieving 52 feet of depth, SCPA will be able to accommodate fully-loaded new-Panamax container ships without tidal restriction.

"South Carolina, the Southeastern region and our nation will enjoy the positive impacts of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project for years to come," said SCPA Board Chairman Pat McKinney. "Today's Congressional authorization is the result of years of hard work and dedication by the South Carolina Congressional Delegation, Governor Haley, our state, local and federal partners, and SCPA leadership. This world-class deepening project ensures SCPA will remain a competitive, growing port well into the future."

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

The WIIN Act, formerly known as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), passed the Senate by a vote of 78-21 and the House by a vote of 360-61. It now moves to the President's desk for signature.

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. House Passes Compromise Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation Act

CHARLESTON, SC - December 8, 2016 - Today's passage of S.612, the Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation Act (WIIN), formerly known as Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), 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 for passing this legislation before the end of the year, which is critical to modernizing ports and port-related infrastructure across the country," said Jim Newsome, SCPA President and CEO. "The South Carolina Delegation worked extremely hard to move this bill forward. Thanks to their support, we are well-positioned to be the deepest harbor on the East Coast by the end of the decade. We remain hopeful that the U.S. Senate will vote and send it to the President for signature in the coming days."

The WIIN Act, which passed the House by a vote of 360-61, now goes to the Senate for consideration.

"Today's action in the House is incredibly important to South Carolina and the nation," said SCPA Board Chairman Pat McKinney. "Members of our delegation have worked tirelessly to ensure the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project remains on track, and we are deeply appreciative of their continued support."

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.

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