Shuster: Savannah’s port ‘all about jobs’ | savannahnow.com

“Our waterways, ports and harbors are absolutely critical to the health of the nation’s economy,” he said, adding that the Savannah harbor supports much more than the local and state economy.

“For example, one of the key economic drivers for the city of Memphis is Savannah’s port. As I go around the United States, I hear that not only from Tennessee, but from other areas that rely on Savannah’s ports.

Noting that exports lead directly to jobs, Shuster pointed to heavy equipment manufacturer Caterpillar, which ships equipment it makes in Peoria, Ill., into the world economy through Savannah.

“If they can’t get it out there in a competitive, low-cost way, we will lose that business to other manufacturers around the world, and that means we will lose jobs,” he said.

“The CEO of Caterpillar was in my office last week, stressing the importance of this project.

“The Port of Savannah is all about jobs.”

Shuster praised Kingston for his work and persistence in getting the importance of the deepening project in front of key people in Washington.

“His leadership has broadened the table to make sure everyone understands how important this is, not just to Georgia but to the nation as a whole,” he said.

via Shuster: Savannah’s port ‘all about jobs’ | savannahnow.com.