Break-bulk tonnes in Charleston and Georgetown totaled 991,705 tonnes for the year, with growth in vehicles, project cargo, heavy lift, bulk and traditional break-bulk cargoes.
“These results show the confidence our customers place in the Ports of Charleston and Georgetown, and it means jobs at a time we could really use them,” said Jim Newsome, president & CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA).
At a regular monthly Board meeting, Newsome highlighted other strategic accomplishments for the year, including:
– Extended South Carolina’s overweight permit limit to 100,000 pounds gross vehicle weight for all shipping containers.
– Expanded on-site and off-terminal trans-loading capabilities for export products to serve China and other major world markets.
– Completed a USD22 million capital project to transform Columbus Street Terminal into a premier rolling stock, break-bulk and project cargo terminal.
– Consolidated container operations and harmonized gate operations under one simplified structure, increasing efficiency.
– Furthered design of a new cruise terminal to open in 2013.
– Advanced the next-generation Charleston Harbor Deepening project.
The accelerated deployment of container ships too big for the Panama Canal, including four a week already in Charleston, underscores the national need for a true post-Panamax harbor in the Southeast region. In July, Charleston hosted its first 9,200 TEU ship and routinely handles large ships actually drafting up to 48 feet.
“Charleston’s deep-water capability, combined with our capable facilities, talented people and aggressive capital program, will continue to drive growth and investment in this state and across the region,” said Newsome.