Biden: Deepen Ga. harbor 'come hell or high water'

SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) The plan to deepen the shipping channel to Savannah's busy seaport to make room for large cargo ships has picked up a big endorsement from Vice President Joe Biden.

During a dockside speech at the Port of Savannah Monday, Biden promised about 500 dockworkers and invited dignitaries that the $652 million harbor deepening project will get done ``come hell or high water.''

For 17 years, Georgia has been seeking permits and funding to deepen the Savannah harbor from 42 to 47 feet. Timing has become critical as a major expansion of the Panama Canal is expected to funnel gigantic ships to East Coast ports starting in 2015.

Curtis Foltz, executive director of the Georgia Ports Authority, says Biden's remarks indicate Savannah's project has the ``full backing'' of the Obama administration.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/9/265640