JAXPORT learned Monday the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has earmarked more than $32 million dollars this year to deepen the St. Johns River to accommodate larger ship traffic.
In his statement following news of the appropriation JAXPORT CEO Eric Green said the allocation is proof that "the federal government believes in the project” and that it has confidence in JAXPORT’s ability to provide a return on the investment.
JAXPORT wants to dredge its harbor to a depth of 47-feet to accommodate larger container ships.
St. Johns Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman said earlier this month, “Higher water levels and higher storm surge increase the flood risk to our homes, our businesses and our neighborhoods. The current plan to dredge an additional seven feet will only increase this risk.”
JAXPORT spokeswoman Nancy Rubin countered the dredging project has undergone extensive study and review. "After more than a decade of study, independent review and public input on harbor deepening, we are ready to complete this incredibly important project and bring new jobs and increased opportunity to the people of Jacksonville," Rubin told WJCT News earlier this month.
Contact reporter Cyd Hoskinson at choskinson@wjct.org, 904-358-6351 and on Twitter @cydwjctnews.
