Georgia’s Port of Brunswick Receives Million Federal Grant for Terminal Upgrades
The Port of Brunswick, located 70 miles south of Savannah, Georgia, has been awarded a million federal grant for the improvement of its shipping terminals. The grant, funded by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, will be used to fund new docks and other upgrades at the port’s East River Terminal. Democratic Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock announced the funding, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the state’s economy.
A Big Win for Coastal Georgia
Senator Ossoff expressed his excitement about the funding, calling it “a big win for coastal Georgia.” He emphasized the rapid growth of Brunswick as a hub for automobile imports and exports, noting the importance of investing in infrastructure to support this industry. He also highlighted the bipartisan nature of the infrastructure law, showcasing that lawmakers from different parties can still work together for the benefit of their constituents.
A car is taken off of ship at the Georgia Ports Authority Colonel’s Island facility in Brunswick, Georgia, on Tuesday Feb. 2, 2010. The port is quickly becoming a hub for automobile imports and exports. Georgia’s Port of Brunswick will receive million through a U.S. Department of Transportation grant funded by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. (Stephen Morton/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Improvements to Enhance Cargo Handling
The Port of Brunswick is not only a major hub for automobile imports and exports but also handles bulk cargo such as agricultural goods, paper, and rubber. The infrastructure grant will be used to improve the port’s East River Terminal, where bulk goods are loaded and unloaded from ships.
The project includes the construction of a new 540-foot dock, replacing the old one, as well as the replacement of half of a second dock. Additionally, the grant will cover the installation of new electrical and water systems at the terminal and the dredging of one berth to accommodate larger ships.
Easing Vessel Traffic for Increased Commerce
Senator Warnock highlighted the positive impact the port project will have on vessel traffic and the flow of commerce in the region. The improvements funded by the federal grant will strengthen Georgia’s ability to compete in world markets, particularly for forest products and other commodities.
The million federal grant will cover approximately half of the total cost of the terminal improvements. The Georgia Ports Authority aims to complete the project by 2027.
Investing in Georgia’s Ports
The grant award comes at a time when the Georgia Ports Authority is already investing 2 million in upgrades and expansions for the Port of Brunswick to handle increased traffic. Additionally, the Army Corps of Engineers is working on a separate .5 million project to widen and deepen portions of Brunswick’s shipping channel.
A Priority for President Biden
The infrastructure law, which received support from both Democrats and Republicans, is a priority for President Joe Biden. It provides trillion for various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, ports, rail transit, electrical grids, and broadband internet. The federal grant awarded to the Port of Brunswick is just one example of the positive impact this legislation is having on communities across the country.
Overall, this million federal grant represents a significant investment in Georgia’s economy and infrastructure. It will enhance the Port of Brunswick’s ability to handle increased cargo traffic and contribute to the state’s position as a key player in international trade.
