Charleston ports agency tells legislators it needs more money to start building rail yard

Friday, April 08, 2022 2:18 PM | Anonymous

COLUMBIA — The State Ports Authority said planned delays in construction of a rail yard serving its container terminals will drive up costs, but the projected increase was not disclosed publicly during a March 24 meeting.

Barbara Melvin, chief operations officer for the agency, told the Joint Bond Review Committee that construction of the Navy Base Intermodal Facility in North Charleston won’t begin until after legislators approve all of the money needed to complete the project. That likely won’t be until July, when the new fiscal year budget begins.

Read full article here:

https://www.postandcourier.com/business/charleston-ports-agency-tells-legislators-it-needs-more-money-to-start-building-rail-yard/article_52bf561c-ab78-11ec-8eac-6387c92635f9.html

Nav/Ops Guest Speaker: April 28, 2022

Friday, April 08, 2022 1:52 PM | Anonymous

Area Port Director – Zachary “Clay” Thomas

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Office of Field Operations

Charleston, South Carolina

Mr. Zachary (Clay) Thomas has served as the Area Port Director Charleston, South Carolina, Atlanta Field Office since November, 2021. In this role, Mr. Thomas oversees more than 100 employees across the State of South Carolina.

As the Area Port Director of Charleston, South Carolina, Mr. Thomas is charged with overseeing six ports of entry to include three major seaport operations, cruise terminal and an international airport.

With over 17 years of law enforcement experience with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Mr. Thomas has held a variety of leadership positions within CBP such as Area Port Director in Seattle, Washington, Dublin Area Port Director and Shannon Port Director, Preclearance Field Office, and Supervisory CBP Officer 2^nd Line, Port of Savannah, Atlanta Field Office.

Mr. Thomas played an instrumental role in amending the current agreement between the United States and the Government of Ireland on Air Transport Preclearance. The amended agreement consists of new provisions which include cost recovery, medical assistance, and compliance agreements for downstream sales. The negotiations also included agreements on a non-binding Memorandum of Consultations (MOC) that addressed a number of CBP related concerns pertaining to restraint devices, consent to search, the preclearance facility, and Irish law enforcement presence.

Mr. Thomas attended the University of South Carolina where he studied business and criminal justice. Mr. Thomas is married and has two children.

Register here: https://www.maritimesc.org/event-4598362/Registration

Marine Safety Information Bulletin: Security Zone - Cooper River Bridge Run

Friday, March 18, 2022 8:34 AM | Nick Wong (Administrator)

SECURITY ZONE – COOPER RIVER BRIDGE RUN

Cooper River and Town Creek Reach, Charleston, SC

The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary security zone on certain waters of the Cooper River and Town Creek Reaches, near the Arthur Ravenel Bridge during the Cooper River Bridge Run on Saturday, April 2, 2022 from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m

Please review link for full details: MSIB 1-22 Security Zone - Cooper River Bridge Run.pdf

12 consecutive months of record volumes at SC Ports

Friday, March 11, 2022 10:21 AM | Anonymous

CHARLESTON, SC — March 10, 2022 – South Carolina Ports had a record February for containers handled at the Port of Charleston.

SC Ports handled 230,420 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) at Wando Welch Terminal, North Charleston Terminal and Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in February, up 26% year-over-year.

SC Ports has moved more than 1.87 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2022, from July through February, up 16% fiscal year-over-year.

“February marked the twelfth consecutive month of monthly year-over-year container records at SC Ports,” said Jim Newsome, South Carolina Ports CEO. “With record throughput volumes, we continue to experience a high number of import containers awaiting delivery on our terminals. We remain focused on creative solutions and executing our vital infrastructure projects, including the completion of the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project this fall, initiating construction on the rail-served Navy Base Intermodal Facility and inner-harbor barge project, and advancing towards a quick completion of the Inland Port Greer expansion project.”

SC Ports handled 127,492 pier containers – which accounts for containers of any size – in February, up nearly 26% from a year ago.

Thus far in fiscal year 2022, SC Ports has moved 1.04 million pier containers, up nearly 16% fiscal year-over-year.

In February, SC Ports handled 119,582 loaded import TEUs, up 46% from last year as retail imports continue to drive the sustained cargo growth. Simultaneously, the Port handled 54,755 loaded export TEUs, down nearly 19% from the same month last year. As SC Ports experiences an increasing imbalance, loaded import volumes were more than double loaded export volumes in February.

“Together, with our teammates, broader maritime community and motor carriers, we continue to work through this unprecedented time of supply chain challenges,” Newsome said. “The strength of our port continues to be in our highly skilled workforce and how we adapt collectively to keep freight moving for our customers.”

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority, 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 in annual economic activity. SC Ports is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet. SC Ports 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. Please visit www.scspa.com to learn more about SC Ports.

$450 million in port grants aimed at cutting consumer costs

Wednesday, February 23, 2022 1:56 PM | Anonymous

$450 million in port grants aimed at cutting consumer costs

First round of maritime funding nearly doubles the amount released in FY21

The U.S. Maritime Administration announced on Wednesday nearly $450 million in FY22 competitive grant funding for projects to help ports speed cargo flows and ultimately lower costs for consumers.

That amount, to be made available through MARAD’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), nearly doubles the amount released late last year in FY21 grants.

Under the $1.2 trillion infrastructure law, the $2.25 billion in total funds allocated for the program for fiscal years 2022 through 2026 is roughly the same amount released in federal port funding programs since MARAD — an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation — began providing such funds in 2009.

“We’re proud to announce this funding to help ports improve their infrastructure — to get goods moving more efficiently and help keep costs under control for American families,” commented Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

“President Biden is leading the largest ever federal investment in modernizing our country’s ports, which will improve our supply chains and the lives of Americans who depend on them.”

PIDP grants support projects that “will improve the movement of goods to, through and around ports,” according to DOT. “Furthermore, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls upon applicants to explore ways to include projects that will improve goods movement while also strengthening resilience, reducing emissions and advancing environmental justice.”

The grants also meet policy recommendations in DOT’s one-year supply chain report, expected to be released later Wednesday, that is focused on improving the movement of goods from ships to shelves.

Congress provided first-year funds of $293 million for the program in FY19 through the Consolidated Appropriations Act and continued funding the program at $225 million in FY2020 and $230 million in FY2021.

“The historic investments made by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help remove bottlenecks by enabling ports to expand capacity and improve intermodal connections,” said Acting Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley. “The grant funds will also create new jobs across the U.S. maritime industry.”

Full Article: $450 million in port grants aimed at cutting consumer costs - FreightWaves

State leads the nation as top exporter of tires and completed passenger motor vehicles

Monday, February 14, 2022 5:05 PM | Anonymous

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

February 14, 2022

State leads the nation as top exporter of tires and completed passenger motor vehicles

S.C. export sales topped $29.7 billion in 2021

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Henry McMaster, the S.C. Department of Commerce and the SC Ports Authority today announced that the state's 2021 export sales totaled $29.7 billion, according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The state remains the top exporter of tires and completed passenger motor vehicles.

“International trade plays an incredibly important role in sustained economic prosperity, and South Carolina consistently demonstrates our ability to move products around the world,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “As industries transform, we are poised to prioritize our support – promoting resources to best equip companies in maximizing their reach overseas.”

To access a full report detailing last year's trade results, click here.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina's leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alex Clark, CMP

Director of Marketing & Communications

South Carolina Department of Commerce

(803) 737-1998

aclark@sccommerce.com

www.SCcommerce.com

-###-

South Carolina Ports had a record January for containers handled at the Port of Charleston

Tuesday, February 08, 2022 5:20 PM | Anonymous

CHARLESTON, SC — February 8, 2022 – South Carolina Ports had a record January for containers handled at the Port of Charleston, following an unprecedented amount of cargo handled in 2021.

SC Ports handled 226,515 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) at Wando Welch Terminal, North Charleston Terminal and Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in January, up 4.7% year-over-year. SC Ports has handled more than 1.64 million TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2022, from July through January, up nearly 15% fiscal year-over-year.

SC Ports handled 125,452 pier containers – which accounts for containers of any size – in January, up 3.5% from a year ago. The Port has handled 913,321 pier containers thus far in fiscal year 2022, up nearly 15% fiscal year-over-year.

January marked the 11th consecutive month of monthly year-over-year container records.

“The global supply chain continues to see great strain from handling unprecedented amounts of cargo,” said Jim Newsome, South Carolina Ports CEO. “With record throughput volumes, we are experiencing a record number of import containers on our terminals awaiting delivery. South Carolina Ports invested strategically in port infrastructure, and we are deploying creative solutions to ensure fluidity for our customers.”

SC Ports handled 117,181 loaded imports in January, up nearly 23% year-over-year as retail imports continue to drive the sustained cargo growth as consumers buy more retail goods.

Inland Port Greer reported 9,301 rail moves in January, while Inland Port Dillon reported 1,942 rail moves last month. Combined, the inland ports have handled 101,913 rail moves thus far in fiscal year 2022.

Vehicle volumes are up nearly 16% year-over-year, with 14,172 vehicles handled at Columbus Street Terminal in January.

SC Ports had three port-of-calls in January, and also welcomed back its homeported ship, the Carnival Sunshine. In total, the Port handled 9,490 cruise passengers last month.

First shipment of chassis for SMART Chassis Pool arrived in January

SC Ports received its first shipment of more than 700 chassis in January, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the SC Ports-owned and operated SMART chassis fleet. South Carolina Ports will continue receiving chassis equipment throughout 2022 as the Port builds its fleet leading up to the full launch of the SMART chassis pool in April 2023.

“The delivery of these chassis marks a new era for South Carolina Ports,” said Barbara Melvin, South Carolina Ports COO. “With the launch of the chassis pool in 2023, South Carolina Ports will enhance the reliability, safety, quality and availability of equipment for the benefit of motor carriers and customers.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Port Notice- FY2022-03

Monday, February 07, 2022 10:56 AM | Nick Wong (Administrator)

Please click on image below to access PDF file

SC Ports welcomes its first shipment of chassis

Monday, January 24, 2022 4:46 PM | Anonymous

SC Ports welcomes its first shipment of chassis. (Photo/SCPA/English Purcell)

CHARLESTON, SC — January 24, 2022 — South Carolina Ports received its first shipment of chassis today, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the SC Ports-owned and operated SMART chassis fleet.

“There has never been more of a need for chassis in the supply chain,” said Jim Newsome, South Carolina Ports CEO. “We found a great partner in Dorsey Intermodal in manufacturing the new port-operated chassis fleet. This is a true reflection of our commitment to creative solutions and ensures efficient and fluid operations as we continue to handle record-breaking cargo volumes.”

This initial shipment delivers more than 700 chassis with another 1,600 expected to arrive in February. South Carolina Ports will continue receiving chassis equipment throughout 2022 as the Port builds its fleet leading up to the full launch of the SMART chassis pool in 2023.

SC Ports continues to work with the management of the existing South Atlantic Chassis Pool, SACP 2.0, to create a smooth transition that will insure uninterrupted service for our ocean carrier customers, shippers, and motor carriers.

“The delivery of these chassis marks a new era for South Carolina Ports,” said Barbara Melvin, South Carolina Ports COO. “With the launch of the chassis pool in 2023, South Carolina Ports will enhance the reliability, safety, quality and availability of equipment for the benefit of motor carriers and customers.”

The chassis arrived at the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal aboard the Liberty Promise after a 40-day journey from Vietnam-based manufacturer THACO Special Vehicle. Dorsey Intermodal partnered with THACO Special Vehicle to increase manufacturing capacity.

“We are humbled to be part of the team bringing South Carolina Ports’ chassis fleet to fruition,” said JP Pierson, Dorsey Intermodal President. “Through our collaboration, South Carolina Ports is bringing a great product to the supply chain at a time it’s most needed, and providing their customers with reliable and safe equipment. We are grateful for the opportunity and congratulate the entire team on this endeavor.”

SC Ports-owned and operated SMART chassis pool opens in spring 2023. (Photo/SCPA/English Purcell)

(Photo/SCPA/Walter Lagarenne)

About South Carolina Ports Authority

South Carolina Ports Authority, 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 in annual economic activity. SC Ports is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet. SC Ports 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. Please visit www.scspa.com to learn more about SC Ports.