MARAD 22-04d
Contact: Wes Irvin
Tel: (202) 366-5807
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
U.S. Maritime Administrator Witnesses Firsthand Booming Business on Great Lakes
Highlights Growth of Great Lakes Shipping & Its Role In Moving The American
Economy
ERIE, Pa. – A booming shipping business on the Great Lakes could spell even
better news for America's growing economy, U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain
William Schubert said today during a visit to the Port of Erie. He came to see
how the port and ships flying the U.S. flag are handling the business from
increased shipments of various commodities moving in and out of the Great Lakes
region.
At the Port of Erie, limestone carried on U.S.-flag ships has increased 10
percent from last year. Overall on the Great Lakes, the Lake Carriers
Association has reported that approximately 5.2 million tons of limestone was
shipped from U.S. ports in August, up almost one million tons from 2003.
Additionally, iron ore shipments on the Great Lakes remained strong with
movement of 18 million tons for the year, up 19 percent from last year’s totals.
“Business is booming on the Great Lakes and the products moving on U.S.-flag
vessels are helping to move the American economy forward,” said Captain
Schubert. “Road builders need more limestone and steel mills need more iron ore.
The commodities traveling on Great Lakes ships are vital if we are to meet the
increased demands of our manufacturing industry. This is good news for the Great
Lakes and great news for America’s strengthening economy.”
During his tour Captain Schubert also cited the importance of the Department of
Transportation's Sea 21 initiative that would provide the resources to help
local ports meet their growing infrastructure needs and better handle increased
business. “We are committed to investing in the future of our ports to ensure
the seamless flow of commerce so that we may continue to compete in the global
market,” said Schubert. Sea 21 will focus on leveraging funds from federal,
state and local governments, as well as the private sector, to address the
capital needs of the Marine Transportation System.
Additionally, the Maritime Administrator discussed the importance of the Short
Sea Shipping initiative that will move more heavy duty traffic off the road and
onto ships. “It makes good sense to make better use of our seaways and waterways
as domestic transportation solutions,” he said.