Gov. Nathan Deal challenged Georgia’s congressional delegation Tuesday, as well as President Obama, to come up with at least $90 million to continue deepening the Savannah River.
Georgia has already put up its share — $266 million — of the $706 million project intended to deepen the river so ever-larger container ships can ply the relatively shallow river. All that remains, Gov. Deal said, was for Washington to uphold its end of the bargain.
“Now, I have had the honor of serving with the members of our Congressional delegation for years, and I am confident in their ability to ensure that the federal government keeps its end of the bargain by funding its $440 million portion of this project which is the only missing piece in this long overdue undertaking,” the governor told hundreds of business and political leaders gathered at the annual Eggs and Issues Breakfast at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Washington, to date, has set aside $67 million to deepen 39 miles of river and ocean runway from 42 to 47 feet. Gov. Deal said “at least $90 million” is needed this upcoming budget cycle from Washington or else the long-delayed project could be pushed even further back.
Dredges are already scooping up mud from the river’s entrance channel. The project, if fully funded, could be finished in five years.
"Georgia has not delayed in fulfilling its responsibilities," Gov. Deal said at the breakfast sponsored by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. "I'm confident that our congressional delegation will not allow the federal government to delay fulfilling its obligations either."
U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., along with all members of Georgia’s congressional delegation, co-authored letters in October to Obama administration officials seeking $80-$100 million this year for the river’s deepening.
“I will continue to press the Obama administration to provide the critical federal support necessary for our state’s number one economic development project,” Isakson said in a statement Tuesday.
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