[ Georgia Port Cargo Handled 9.67million Tons in 1996 ]

Propelled by expanding ocean transportation services and the addition
of valuable new customers, cargo handled via Georgia Ports Authority
facilities during fiscal year 1996 surpassed the FY95 record
performance.
Total tonnage climbed 1.7% over the previous year to 9,670,410 tons.
The diversified mix of cargo moving through modern, efficient
terminals in Georgia during FY96 established a new volume record and
marked the ninth consecutive year of growth for the Georgia Ports
Authority.
Customer driven improvements during FY96, such as equipment
acquisitions, facility enhancements and technological advancements,
were credited for facilitating the continued growth in business.
The purchase of additonal container field and breakbulk handling
equipment, to promote customer efficiencies and strengthen the
Georgia Ports Authority’s ability to provide productive services,
contributed substantially to the diverse growth in business. Paved
container storage space was increased during the year to accommodate
growing customer requirements and a new container freight expediting
facility was completed.
Additional expansion and enhancement projects included the first
phase development of a new container berth and dry bulk facility
capacity improvements. Other phased projects making progress during
FY96 included reconnaissance and feasibility studies for new harbor
deepening improvements and the Sidney Lanier Bridge replacement in
Brunswick.
Concentrating on service requirements and seeking export/import
opportunities for products worldwide, the Georgia Ports Authority
strengthened its operations, sales and marketing teams in FY96.
Planning efforts and management decisions resulted in the creations
of a dedicated agri-commodities operations and sales team, an
increase in marketing research capabilities and the creation of a
Latin American sales force operating in Buenos Aires.
The Georgia Ports Authority also continued to strengthen its
reputation as a leader in the development of new technologies to
better serve the needs of its customers and further boost operating
performance levels in the field. Implementation of radio frequency
technology and a fully integrated container interchange gate system
have been directly credited by port users to higher productivity
levels and numerous other cost reduction advantages.