Savannah Port Handled 2.6 Million Containers in 2007

January 29, 2008 8:23 a.m. EST

Atlanta, GA (AHN)- The Georgia Port Authority announced Monday that the Port of Savannah handled a record of 2.6 million 20-foot containers in 2007, up 20 percent up from 2006. With increasing volume at Savannah, the fourth largest port in the U.S., the GPA has earmarked $1.2 billion for the development of Georgia's deep sea ports.

"We are setting new records, exceeding service levels and moving forward with an aggressive, $1.2 billion capital improvement plan to grow our business to new heights and create more jobs and opportunities for the citizens of Georgia," said Doug J. Marchand, GPA executive director, in a statement.

Total tonnage at Colonel's Island general cargo and vehicle handling facility posted an increase of 13.4 percent due to new customers Bunge North America, Bentley and Maserati as well as increased cargo volumes from existing customers. The vehicle handling facility is the country's sixth largest autoport.

The GPA also approved two capital improvement projects for the Port of Savannah: the $11 million Chatham Yard Intermodal Container Transfer Facility, and $4.6 million for an additional 42 acres container storage area.

The intermodal facility, located at the Garden City Terminal, is designed to enhance Savannah's rail capacity, improve overall terminal efficiency and increase Georgia's reach throughout the southeastern U.S.

The Atlanta Business Chronicle reported that Georgia's deepwater ports and inland barge terminals contribute $10.8 billion in income, $35.4 billion in revenue, and $1.4 billion in state and local taxes to the state economy.