South Carolina Port Authority advances infrastructure projects to boost port efficiency
The South Carolina Ports Authority says two massive new cranes have arrived at the port in Charleston. (Photo: Charleston County Parks/Twitter)
(WCIV) — South Carolina Port Authority officials announced Tuesday progress on two infrastructure projects that they claim will enhance the Port of Charleston and the Leatherman Terminal.
Six electric rail-mounted gantry cranes were erected at the Leatherman Rail Facility, which is set to open in 2026.
Additionally, work by Kuenz to commission the cranes has begun. Once completed, South Carolina Port Authority officials claim the facility will be capable of handling 1 million rail lifts a year.
“The investments SC Ports makes today, with backing from our state leaders, keep our port system ready to meet projected demand,” said Barbara Melvin, president and chief executive officer of the South Carolina Port Authority.
“The continued growth of our inland rail facilities, and our commitment to enhancing efficiency for our customers, necessitated this critical infrastructure expansion, and will keep SC Ports competitive as a top 10 U.S. container port for decades to come.”
Progress is also being made on the one-mile, dedicated drayage road that will separate intermodal traffic from Interstate 26, officials said.
The Leatherman Terminal expansion also entered its second phase, with test piles for the wharf extension installed. This marks the first step in extending the wharf an additional 1,600 feet to create space for five ship-to-shore cranes.
