Gov. Wolf’s port development plan spurs PhilaPort growth

The Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) recently welcomed the arrival of the port’s first two super post-Panamax cranes, a major milestone celebrated Tuesday by Gov. Tom Wolf, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), and other state, federal and local leaders.

“My administration is working hard to invest critical dollars in improvements at PhilaPort, so that we can create thousands of jobs and grow the economy of this region, and the entire commonwealth,” Wolf said. “Pennsylvania’s ports are vital to the economic success of Pennsylvania, and I am proud to say that the continued success of PhilaPort is one of my administration’s highest priorities.”

In 2016, Wolf announced his plan to invest more than $300 million in PhilaPort’s infrastructure, warehousing and equipment. Since then, the port saw nearly 20 percent growth in 2017 and met record breaking cargo volumes. Additionally, PhilaPort received the largest container vessel to ever call at the port last month.

“Deepening the Delaware is one of the most substantial job creation opportunities that Southeastern Pennsylvania has had in decades,” Casey said. “For years it was a distant goal, but because of the dedication of this community, it is becoming a reality. I have been a proud partner in this effort and have worked to secure $271 million in federal funding for the deepening project. I look forward to PhilaPort’s continued growth in the years ahead.”

The governor’s development plan is expected to continue through 2020, supporting thousands of jobs and generating an increase of more than $100 million in state and local tax revenues each year.