November 17 - Georgia and South Carolina's port authorities have signed a joint venture agreement that provides the necessary framework for the two US states to work cooperatively towards the development of the Jasper Ocean Terminal (JOT).
The JOT joint project office was first established under an intergovernmental agreement signed in 2008 by the previous governors of Georgia and South Carolina. This new agreement takes effect immediately and continues the work of the JOT.
The updated agreement governs the permitting and planning process for the terminal, including the development of terminal design and supporting infrastructure, plans for financing, and execution of the operational decisions required during the permitting process.
"As South Carolina and Georgia renew this commitment to make the Jasper Ocean Terminal a reality, we have an incredible opportunity to strengthen our ports system - and that's a great thing, not only for the people of Jasper County but for the entire state," said South Carolina governor Nikki Haley.
Georgia governor Nathan Deal added: "This agreement shows significant progress in our commitment to support economic development in our region. We must expand port infrastructure in the fast-growing US southeast to accommodate future demand in manufacturing and retail."
The Jasper Ocean Terminal will be jointly owned and operated by both port authorities.
