FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, June 17, 2005

Isakson, Chambliss Praise $19 Million
for Brunswick Harbor Deepening Project
Deeper Harbor Critical to Growth of Port, State’s Economy

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) and Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.) today praised the Senate Appropriations Committee’s passage of legislation that includes $19.1 million for the deepening of the Brunswick Harbor channel, a project that is critical to the Brunswick port and to the entire state of Georgia.                          

The funds will be used to continue deepening the Brunswick Harbor from 30 feet to 36 feet, allowing the Port of Brunswick to accommodate larger cargo carriers and attract new business.  The deepening of the harbor, along with the completion two years ago of the Sidney Lanier Bridge over the harbor,  is projected to bring $400 million annually in new sales, 1,000 new jobs and $15.8 million in additional tax revenue to Georgia.

“I am very pleased to see this kind of commitment to the Brunswick Harbor deepening project. It is one of the most important projects to our entire state and critical to the state’s economic future,” Isakson said. “These funds will only help the Harbor improve its position as a gateway for business to Georgia.”

"We recognize that this project is vital to meet current and future requirements of port customers, and will be a powerful factor in the continued growth of employment opportunities in Brunswick, Glynn County and the entire region,” said Chambliss.  “This project is environmentally sound and we are very pleased that the committee recognized the importance of this project to the area."

The funds are part of the fiscal year 2006 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill, which the Senate Appropriations Committee approved yesterday. The bill now goes to the Senate floor for consideration. The Senate action matches the $19.1 million already approved by the House.

“This action in support of $19.1 million in federal funding is a great testament to the work that Senator Isakson and his colleague, Senator Chambliss, have done in the Senate on behalf of the people of Georgia,” said Doug Marchand, executive director of the Georgia Ports Authority. “The U.S. Senate has sent a strong signal to our state and our port customers that Brunswick is going to continue to grow as a viable engine for economic development in our state and region.”

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