- SC Ports received the final $21.28 million federal reimbursement, completing the $580 million harbor deepening project.
- Leaders credited strong federal, state, and local collaboration, with Senator Graham playing a key role in securing funds.
- The project deepened Charleston Harbor to 52 feet, ensuring unrestricted access for the world’s largest container ships.
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers called it the largest project in the district’s history, strengthening U.S. maritime infrastructure.
The South Carolina Ports Authority has received the final federal reimbursement for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project, totaling $21.28 million from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ FY 2025 Work Plan. This marks the completion of the $580 million initiative that established Charleston Harbor as the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet. According to the South Carolina Ports Authority, the project enhances competitiveness by enabling unrestricted access for the largest container vessels, improving efficiency, and driving new investment.
Federal and State Partnership in Harbor Deepening
South Carolina Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin emphasized that completing the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project required strong collaboration at every level of government. She credited Senator Lindsey Graham’s leadership and years of persistence in ensuring timely federal reimbursement, which strengthens SC Ports’ ability to remain competitive in the fast-growing Southeast.
Senator Graham described the final funding milestone as the result of sustained teamwork among federal, state, and local leaders. He noted that the harbor deepening was not only about advancing infrastructure but also about safeguarding jobs and securing long-term economic growth. Graham highlighted the early commitment by Governor Henry McMaster, Senator Hugh Leatherman, and state partners who provided upfront funding to keep the project on track, while pledging to secure full federal reimbursement.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers underscored the scale of the effort, with District Commander Lt. Col. Todd Mainwaring noting that more than 40 million cubic yards of material were moved to reach the record depth of 52 feet. He described the achievement as both an engineering success and a strategic investment in the nation’s maritime infrastructure and economic future.
The project’s completion reflects a coordinated partnership of federal and state resources, bringing to a close the largest initiative in the history of the Charleston District.
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Source: South Carolina Ports Authority
