News Summary
Greer, South Carolina celebrates the completion of a $55 million expansion of Inland Port Greer, significantly increasing its cargo capacity by 50%. The expansion includes 9,000 feet of additional rail, more than 20 acres of new cargo yard space, and new facilities designed to meet the growing demand for freight service through 2040. This milestone will enhance the local economy and create job opportunities, solidifying Inland Port Greer’s role as a vital hub for major businesses.
Exciting News for Greer: Inland Port Expansion Completed!
Greer, South Carolina, is buzzing with enthusiasm as the Inland Port Greer has just wrapped up an impressive $55 million expansion project! Opening its doors in October 2013, this vital cargo hub has ramped up its operations significantly, and this recent upgrade is bound to take it to another level.
What’s New at Inland Port Greer?
Officially announced during a media event on March 26, 2025, the expansion aims to boost the port’s freight capacity and efficiency substantially. The project is all set to increase cargo capacity by 50% and is designed to meet the burgeoning customer demand well into 2040. Among the exciting enhancements are:
- 9,000 feet of additional rail to handle longer trains seamlessly.
- A significant expansion of the container yard, adding nearly 20 acres of new cargo yard space.
- New terminal operation and maintenance buildings, although the latter is still under construction.
Before the expansion, Inland Port Greer had the capacity to handle 187,000 rail lifts annually. Thanks to the improvements, this number has skyrocketed to a whopping 300,000 rail lifts annually! For clarity, a rail lift refers to the action of moving a cargo container on or off a train.
Impressive Cargo Growth
Inland Port Greer is raising eyebrows with its extraordinary performance. It’s set to manage around 200,000 rail lifts for the current fiscal year alone. Between 2014 and 2024, the port has experienced a jaw-dropping 355% increase in cargo growth, averaging an annual growth rate of 16%!
This is fantastic news for local businesses and the community, reflecting the vibrant growth of South Carolina’s economy.
Funding and Support for the Expansion
This ambitious expansion has received crucial support, thanks in part to a $25 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation back in 2018. Notably, the South Carolina Ports received $13.75 million from the grant, which was facilitated through the South Carolina Department of Transportation. This funding has played a pivotal role in allowing the port to take this giant leap forward!
Companies and Economic Impact
Inland Port Greer has positioned itself as a vital hub for major companies such as Michelin, Adidas, First Solar, BMW, Eastman, TTI Floor Care, and Visual Comfort and Co. According to industry experts, the expansion is a critical investment for the region, aimed at enhancing service for existing customers while also attracting new businesses.
The port relies heavily on Norfolk Southern trains for transporting cargo between Greer and Charleston, and they have been instrumental in making this expansion a reality.
Job Opportunities in the Community
Inland Port Greer currently employs 68 dedicated individuals who keep the facility running smoothly around the clock. The expansion is expected to support even more job opportunities as business continues to grow.
A Strong Future Ahead
South Carolina Ports boast an impressive $44 billion economic impact on the Upstate, supporting approximately 132,000 jobs. With the ongoing growth in South Carolina’s population and economy, this expansion emphasizes the necessity to meet increasing freight demands.
In summary, the completion of the Inland Port Greer’s expansion project marks a significant milestone for the local economy and cargo operations in the region. With adequate planning and foresight, the future looks bright for Greer and its bustling port! Get ready to celebrate this extraordinary achievement together!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Inland Port Greer Completes Major Expansion to Boost Cargo Operations
Spartanburg Records 8% Surge in Home Sales for 2024
Major Expansion at Inland Port Greer to Enhance Cargo Handling
Additional Resources
- Railway Age: SC Ports Completes Inland Port Greer Expansion
- Wikipedia: Greer, South Carolina
- GSA Business: Inland Port Greer Completes $55M Expansion
- Google Search: Inland Port Greer
- Fox Carolina: SC Ports Announces Completion of $55 Million Expansion at Inland Port Greer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Greer
- Upstate Business Journal: $55M Inland Port Greer Expansion Nearly Complete
- WSPA: SC Ports Completes $55 Million Expansion Project at Inland Port Greer
