“As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Lindsey Graham ensured the omnibus appropriations bill included language to benefit our port system,” said Bill Stern, SCPA Board Chairman. “Senator Graham continues to demonstrate his support for SC Ports and a clear vision for the future competitiveness of South Carolina. There is no question that his leadership has enabled the positive progress of our harbor deepening efforts.”
The bill includes funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to continue its Feasibility Study of the Post-45 Harbor Deepening project, which expects to receive its Chief’s Report in September 2015, as well as construction funds for Charleston that could facilitate the deepening project moving forward without delay upon receipt of the Chief’s Report.
Additionally, it contains language pertaining to emerging harbors that could provide opportunities for the Port of Georgetown to compete for maintenance funding to restore its harbor depth.
“Senator Graham recognizes the rich opportunities for South Carolina when our ports remain competitive and invest in the future,” said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. “He is an incredible advocate for our state, and his efforts in the passage of this bill safeguard the progress of the Ports Authority’s key strategic initiatives.”
The bill was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday with support of five members of the South Carolina delegation. It now goes to the President’s desk for signature.