Scott Statement on Charleston Port

Press Release

Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement today on the decision by the Army Corps of Engineers to include $150,000 of funding for the Port of Charleston in its 2011 Work Plan:

"Persistence pays off. We knew dredging the Port of Charleston was a worthy project and we were persistent in ensuring that the Corps of Engineers knew that, too.

I am pleased that the Corps has decided to move forward with the harbor deepening project, which will bring hundreds of millions of dollars in annual benefits to our state and our country. No issue has been a higher priority for our office than securing the funding necessary to ensure that the port -- the economic engine of South Carolina -- remains viable and prosperous for years to come.

More importantly, we achieved this funding based on the merits of our port, through an open and transparent process, a process to which I am completely committed. The Corps rightly concluded that the Port of Charleston provided the best value in the Southeast and as such, would be a true asset to our nation.

I greatly appreciate the work of Congressman Clyburn, Senator Graham and our entire delegation. Together, we conveyed this project's importance throughout Congress, the Administration and the Corps.

While the 2011 Work Plan is an important marker, we must continue our efforts to ensure that the deepening project moves forward expeditiously, both in the 2012 Budget and beyond. I will continue to fight for the Ports of Charleston and Georgetown, while reforming the way the Corps of Engineers selects projects so that worthwhile and economically viable projects are given priority, regardless of where in the nation they are located."

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