South Carolina Ports President and CEO, Barbara Melvin, delivered her first State of the Port address yesterday, sharing her vision to continue succeeding as the 8th largest container port in the country by investing in operations, infrastructure and people.
“Our growth is made possible because of the unrivaled support we receive from Governor McMaster, the General Assembly, the Congressional delegation, and many elected leaders and community partners,” Melvin said.
With record growth and demand, strategic investments into critical port infrastructure will ensure SC Ports remains a world-class port system.
SC Ports has invested more than $2 billion into key port infrastructure to remain a top 10 U.S. container port.
Phase One of Leatherman Terminal adds an additional berth to the East Coast. Wando Welch Terminal has been modernized to handle three 14,000-TEU vessels simultaneously. Inland Port Greer is undergoing an expansion to enhance cargo and rail capacity.
The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project , which is fully funded by state and federal dollars, makes Charleston the deepest harbor on the East Coast at 52 feet.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District, will complete the project this fall, enabling SC Ports to handle mega container ships any time, any tide.
Melvin delivered her address to more than 1,100 attendees at The Propeller Club’s annual event in Charleston.
Attendees included Governor Henry McMaster, elected leaders, SC Ports Board members, port customers, community partners and maritime officials.