Press Releases

Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01) applauded the start of construction on the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project today. The United States Army Corps of Engineers began the long-awaited first actions on construction this afternoon.

“Today is a momentous day for the state of Georgia,” Carter said. “I am thrilled to see this project finally moving forward after nearly two decades of bureaucratic hurdles that stood in the way of construction. It is past time to begin this vital project that will create thousands of jobs and increase our nation’s competitiveness while boasting an unprecedented $5.50 return on every $1 invested.”

The United States Army Corps of Engineers estimates that the harbor deepening project will bring $174 million in annual net benefits to the United States.

“I celebrate the tireless fight and dedication of my predecessor, former Congressman Jack Kingston, as well as other leaders who got us to this point,” Carter said. “Now it’s my turn and I know that we still have a long road ahead of us. I am jumping into the fight and I will be there every step of the way until this project is completed.”

The Savannah Harbor Expansion Project was originally authorized in the Water Resources and Development Act of 1999. The project will deepen the Savannah River from its current 42 feet to 47 feet to allow larger container vessels into the harbor. Congress reauthorized the construction of SHEP in the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 and in October, officials from the Georgia Ports Authority and the United States Army Corps of Engineers signed a project partnership agreement to officially launch construction of the project.