More freight has shifted from the West Coast to the East Coast, with East Coast ports now handling 54 percent of our nation’s global trade. Norfolk Southern has invested in our East Coast port partnerships over decades, and we have strong, longstanding relationships with more than 54 US river, sea, and lake ports. These constructive partnerships help Norfolk Southern customers reach existing markets more efficiently and connect to new markets.

South Carolina is among the fastest-growing states in the US – both in population size and economic opportunity. During her second State of the Port address on October 16, South Carolina Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin showcased how SC Ports is powerhouse port, serving as a strategic gateway for cargo owners seeking a well-run port in the thriving Southeast market. She also remarked on the many investments that SC Ports is making alongside partners – like Norfolk Southern. One of the largest growth projects in progress right now is the SC Ports Navy Base Intermodal Facility (NBIF) in North Charleston. The state-of-the-art cargo yard is expected to come online by July of 2025, and Norfolk Southern will be one of its leading rail service providers once it does.

SC Ports says, “This near-port intermodal operation will further speed goods to market, alongside a future barge operation that will transport containers between port terminals.”

Norfolk Southern VP Intermodal and Automotive Shawn Tureman participated by video in the 2023 State of the Ports address. He shared, “[We’re] excited about being part of this initiative, because it creates a more efficient, lower carbon solution, supporting both our customers, and the community, and the economy of the state of South Carolina, and delivering freight to our nation.”

SC Ports is also expanding rail-served Inland Port Greer to handle significant customer growth in the Upstate over the past decade. The expansion involves doubling cargo capacity and enhancing rail capabilities.

Read more about SC Ports work to increase its supply chain infrastructure here, and watch Tureman and Norfolk Southern’s partners at SC Ports discuss the progress and the importance of the NBIF by clicking the link below.