For the first time, the US President’s Budget has included US$3.5 million for the Charleston Harbour dredging feasibility costs while at the same time earmarking another $2.8 million for rival Savannah Harbour to get on with actual dredging.

The White House funding, if passed, which is doubtful because of the politics of an election year, would further the project to deepen the North Carolina harbour channels to 45 feet. North Carolina environmental authorities, spurred by local eco-lobbies, have continued to seek to stop dredging in Savannah River.

Savannah, Georgia was pleased with its smaller allotment: “The funding, along with $180 million in state funds, will allow this project to stay on track,” said Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. “We plan to work closely with the Army Corps of Engineers to ensure this project is approved and the necessary funds are in place to begin construction in the coming months.”

Said Bill Stern, chairman of the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA): “We are incredibly grateful to the administration for recognising the importance of the Port of Charleston in the national economic strategy. This funding puts us well on our way to completing the feasibility phase.”

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