SCPA moves ahead with second inland port

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
image description
South Carolina Ports Authority

The South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) will develop a second inland port in Dillon, S.C., following a unanimously approved resolution by the SCPA Board of Directors on Sept. 12.

“Inland Port Dillon will be a great diversification of our state’s logistics footprint,” said Jim Newsome, SCPA president and CEO. “Building intermodal infrastructure in our state goes hand-in-hand with the significant investment we are making to our port facilities in Charleston. This is an exciting opportunity for SCPA.”

Located in the “Pee Dee” region of South Carolina, SCPA will break ground on the new terminal in the first quarter of 2017 and plans to open the facility by the end of the year. The site was selected for its proximity to I-95 and it will be served by an existing CSX mainline, which provides overnight access to the Port of Charleston. Officials note that with 166-percent growth of SCPA’s intermodal volume since 2011, demand for such inland facilities has increased rapidly.

“Expanding intermodal service in South Carolina through Inland Port Dillon will create a competitive advantage for area businesses by lowering transportation costs and providing greater access to domestic and international markets,” said Dean Piacente, CSX vice president, Intermodal. “This new facility will build on the state of South Carolina’s already strong freight rail network supporting continued business growth and job creation.”

“Inland Port Greer has allowed the port to increase the cargo volumes moved by intermodal rail and become a key catalyst for economic development in the ppstate,” said Pat McKinney, SCPA Board Chairman. “We are confident that Inland Port Dillon will realize similar benefits for the port and our customers, increase local business opportunities and provide solid job growth. We appreciate the involvement and support of the state and federal agencies assisting the port to make this project a reality.”

A study of the market potential and proposed terminal layout was completed since the SCPA first announced its consideration of the Dillon site in April. The Port will now move into the design phase of the project, with the initial terminal build out expected to accommodate 45,000 containers annually.

 

Tags: