Jason Hunt

Georgia Ports Authority

The Ports of Savannah and Brunswick are vital gateways to global markets for U.S. manufacturers and retailers, handling containerized cargo, refrigerated goods, breakbulk, agri-bulk and vehicles. Savannah's Garden City Terminal is the nation's fourth busiest container terminal, while the Port of Brunswick ranks No. 1 for the import of new autos. The GPA supports nearly 440,000 jobs throughout the state, representing $25 billion in personal income annually. For five years in-a-row, Georgia has been named the best state in which to do business. Factors including its low tax burden, innovative workforce training and world-class logistics network set Georgia apart. With direct links to interstates 95 and 16 and on terminal rail service from two class 1 rail providers, CSX and Norfolk Southern, Georgia is a hub for cargo distribution reaching the fast growing Southeast U.S. GPA balances economic growth with a commitment to sustainability. Initiatives include electrification efforts that avoid the use of more than 5.8 million gallons of diesel annually. Over the last 15 years, GPA has reduced diesel consumption by more than 50 percent per container unit moved. To better serve today's megaships, deepening of the Savannah Harbor to 47 feet has begun. Super Post-Panamax vessels will be able to call on Savannah with heavier loads and greater scheduling flexibility once the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project is complete.