Public ports in the United States play an important role in local and regional economies throughout the nation. They generate business development and provide employment to more than 13 million Americans, which includes those that work at the ports themselves and those employed in global trade and import/export support services. According to the American Association of Port Authorities, U.S. business activities related to waterborne commerce contribute more than $3 trillion to America’s economy. Seaport activities alone account for tens of millions in federal, state and local tax revenues. There are approximately 360 commercial ports that serve the United States, according to the U.S Coast Guard. Many of these accommodate ocean-going cargo, as well as barges, ferries and recreational watercraft. More than 150 deep draft seaports are located along the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as well as the Great Lakes, the Gulf of Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Port of South Louisiana ranks first in cargo volume (in tonnage) among U.S. Ports, followed by the Port of Houston, Texas and the Ports of New York and New Jersey (Port Newark). Many of the country’s most prominent ports work closely with private industry in the development and financing of maritime-related facilities. More than 60 U.S. ports are now nearing the end of a five-year infrastructure development project created to expand and modernize their facilities for more efficient cargo movement. A by-product of this effort, beside additional job creation, is helping to make American exports more competitive overseas. America’s port authorities play a key role in the business of waterborne commerce. Their authority may also incorporate other global trade hubs such as airports, industrial parks and Foreign Trade Zones. Since 9/11, there has also been a renewed appreciation of the role that port authorities play in national security.
Surge in U.S. Inbound Containers Signals Economic Growth in 2024
In the opening months of 2024, the United States has witnessed a significant surge in inbound container volumes, signaling robust… Read More
Defense Bill Provides for U.S. Border, Maritime Security
A measure that includes important provisions for United States maritime and border security passed the Congress earlier this week. The… Read More
Reactivating Grain Silo at Port of Brownsville
OmniTRAX, Inc., one of the largest privately held transportation service companies in North America and an affiliate of The Broe… Read More
First In-Port Cold Storage Facility In North Carolina
The temperatures inside Port of Wilmington Cold Storage (PWCS) may be below freezing, but the demand for cold storage in… Read More
Port Everglades Authorized to Deepen and Widen Channels
The passage and signing of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act has had immediate ramifications for Port Everglades,… Read More
Ground Breaking for New ExpressRail Port Jersey Facility
GCT USA and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey broke ground earlier this week for the ExpressRail… Read More
Port Manatee Opens Expanded South Gate
Offering enhanced capabilities for movement of oversized cargo, Port Manatee’s newly expanded south gate complex is now open. A ribbon-cutting… Read More
Port Tampa Bay’s $17.2B Annual Economic Impact
A new economic impact study of 2015 numbers shows that Port Tampa Bay has an annual regional economic impact of… Read More
South Carolina Ports Post Record November Container Volume
The South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) reported its strongest November container volumes on record earlier this week. SCPA handled 175,217… Read More
North American Grain Shipments Flowing
The St. Lawrence Seaway is expecting a strong finish to the shipping season as freighters deliver raw materials and exports… Read More
Solar Panels Installed at Port of Long Beach
The Port of Long Beach is doing its part to contribute to a sustainable environment with the installation of a… Read More
UPDATED: U.S. Congress Passes Water Resources Bill
The United States Congress passed a new water resources bill over the weekend. The House of Representatives passed a final… Read More
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