Evans, GA, Jul 20, 2012 -

U.S. Congressman Paul Broun, M.D. (GA-10) today released the following statement after the White House announced that it would expedite the permitting and review process for the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP).  Deepening the channel at Savannah Harbor from its current depth of 42 feet to a depth of 47 feet is expected to result in a net annual benefit of $174 million to the nation: 

“I am thrilled that the Administration has chosen to make deepening the Savannah Harbor a priority,” said Broun.  “As one of the nation’s fastest growing container ports, the completion of the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project will create a boost to our state’s economy and put Americans back to work.  It will also strengthen the international competiveness of U.S. businesses that rely on world trade to bring prosperity home to our citizens.” 

SHEP is one of seven nationally and regionally significant infrastructure projects that President Obama will expedite to help modernize and expand five major ports in the United States.   The Administration is committed to completing all federal reviews for the Port of Savannah by November of 2012.