News Summary
Georgia’s deepwater ports are crucial to the state’s economy, generating around $43 billion in personal income and supporting about 650,000 jobs. Despite challenges at the Port of Brunswick, the Port of Savannah has seen significant growth, handling more container traffic than ever. Investments in infrastructure are set to enhance operations, contributing to a robust economic landscape. The ports have also generated over $10 billion in federal tax revenue, highlighting their importance. As Governor Brian Kemp emphasizes, the continued expansion of these ports is vital for Georgia’s economic stability.
Savannah, Georgia – Georgia’s deepwater ports are pivotal to the state’s economy, supporting over 650,000 jobs and generating significant income amid ongoing infrastructure investments. A recent economic impact study from the University of Georgia’s business school reveals that activity at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick contributes approximately $43 billion in personal income, which represents around 7% of the state’s total income. This marks a notable rise in employment in the region, with port-related jobs seeing a 7% increase from the previous fiscal year.
The Port of Savannah, the busiest of Georgia’s ports, has handled 9% more container units compared to the same period last year. In August alone, it achieved near-record container traffic, surpassing 500,000 units for the fourth time in six months, displaying a robust recovery from an earlier downturn. The port has also implemented new routing processes aimed at improving turnaround times for ships, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
Despite the successes at Savannah, the Port of Brunswick faced challenges with a 14% decline in autos and machinery traffic year-over-year. Overall, the state’s ports contributed $174 billion in sales during the last fiscal year, showing a 2% increase from fiscal 2023, and accounted for 12% of total employment within Georgia. Additionally, the ports contributed $77 billion to Georgia’s Gross Domestic Product, reflecting a 7% year-over-year growth.
In the next decade, the Georgia Port Authority is committed to substantial improvements and expansions, with an anticipated $4.5 billion investment in infrastructure. Recently, $614 million was approved specifically for infrastructure work, aimed at bolstering the capabilities of the state’s ports and accommodating growing cargo volumes.
The economic benefits of Georgia’s ports extend beyond job creation. They generated approximately $10 billion in federal tax revenue, alongside $3 billion in state taxes and another $3 billion in local taxes. The top exports from these ports include forest products, food, and automotive cargo, with machinery, retail goods, and furniture being the primary imports.
The ongoing support from state officials, including Governor Brian Kemp, underscores the ports’ critical role in driving economic growth and job generation in Georgia. As one in eight jobs in the state is tied to the operations of its two ocean ports, their continued expansion and efficiency improvements are crucial for maintaining economic stability and growth.
The data was analyzed and reported by Jeff Humphreys, director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth, further solidifying the importance of ports not only to local economies but also to the broader economic landscape of Georgia. As infrastructure developments continue, the focus on enhancing the ports’ capabilities demonstrates a commitment to supporting future economic initiatives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- MDJ Online: State Investing More in Georgia Ports
- Wikipedia: Port of Savannah
- WTOC: Georgia Ports Reports Significant Job Growth
- Google Search: Georgia Ports Economic Impact
- AJC: Trade Rebounds Sharply at Georgia’s Ports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia
- Grice Connect: One in Eight Jobs Related to Savannah and Brunswick Ports
- Google News: Georgia Ports Job Growth
- Statesboro Herald: Georgia Ports Economic Impact on the Rise
- Google Scholar: Georgia Ports
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
