The South Carolina Ports Authority is poised to significantly increase the Port of Charleston’s capacity through the acquisition of the former WestRock paper mill site in North Charleston, S.C. This strategic move will see the roughly 280-acre industrial waterfront property adjacent to the port’s North Charleston Terminal transformed to bolster the port’s capacity to handle up to 5 million containers in the future. Additionally, the expansion will create 5,000 feet of linear berth space for container ships and about 400 acres of terminal space for cargo handling.
Key to this expansion is the modernization of the existing North Charleston Terminal. Plans include an optimized layout, upgraded cargo handling equipment, and significant new container capacity. The terminal will also benefit from on-terminal rail service provided by Palmetto Railways, offering dual connectivity to CSX and Norfolk Southern, enhancing its logistical capabilities. Furthermore, proximity to Interstate 526 positions the terminal for even greater efficiency.
The project is part of a broader initiative that includes infrastructure improvements like the replacement of the Don Holt Bridge by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), which will accommodate larger vessels by removing height constraints. Additionally, a collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a feasibility study aims to deepen a stretch of the Cooper River, allowing access for the largest containerships to the North Charleston Terminal.
This comprehensive expansion and modernization effort underscore SC Ports’ commitment to supporting the growth of the Southeast’s economy, ensuring the Port of Charleston remains competitive and capable of meeting the increasing demand in the region.
Credits:
- Railway Age, “Port of Charleston Capacity Set to Expand”, Railway Age Article.
