Wes Hickman (202-224-5972) or Kevin Bishop (864-250-1417)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today said he was pleased with the meeting the congressional delegation held with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and State Ports Authority (SPA) to discuss issues relating to the decision to build a new marine cargo terminal on the former Charleston Naval Base. There has been concern the Corps would want to conduct a full-blown Environmental Impact Study (EIS) which would slow progress on the project. The Navy base has already been the subject of environmental studies and additional delay could hurt the state’s economy. “I believe another extended study would slow down our progress and be totally unnecessary,” said Graham. “I also think it would be a waste of taxpayer dollars.” “As Senator Hollings noted in our meeting, a similar situation existed in Norfolk, Virginia and it only took six months to get everything resolved,” said Graham. “If it’s an achievable standard for Norfolk then it should be achievable for Charleston. After meeting with them, I think the Corps will work in good faith with us to expedite this.” “The congressional delegation is totally behind this effort and understands the urgent need to expand the port as soon as possible,” said Graham. “The port is one of the leading economic engines in our state and every day we delay hurts businesses in our state.” Also in attendance at the meeting were Representives Henry Brown and Gresham Barrett, and staff from the offices of Representatives Jim DeMint, Joe Wilson, John Spratt, and Jim Clyburn. ####