Posted on March 3, 2025
SAVANNAH, Ga. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, attended the 2025 Brunswick and Savannah State of the Port luncheons hosted by the Georgia Ports Authority.
The Brunswick State of the Port was held at the Jekyll Island Convention Center, Feb. 12, 2025, and the Savannah State of the Port was held at the Savannah Convention Center, Feb. 25, 2025.
The events began with a networking reception, followed by a luncheon, and concluded with remarks from GPA President and CEO, Griff Lynch.
Lynch presented the latest developments at the GPA as the keynote speaker. Kent Fountain, GPA chairman, and Nick Harty, International Propeller Club president, also spoke during the three-hour programs.
The events provided a forum for chamber members, state leaders and key stakeholders to discuss the Brunswick and Savannah ports’ role in the local and state economy.
District Commander, Col. Ron Sturgeon, attended the Brunswick State of the Port and was joined by Michael Montone, Operations Division chief, and Samantha Kephart, project manager in the Civil Works Programs and Project Management Branch.
Kephart serves as the project manager for the Brunswick Harbor Modifications Project and said that attending the event signals commitment to the Corps’ shared interests and fosters stronger connections with our stakeholders.
“I always look forward to these events with Georgia Ports Authority,” said Kephart. “These gatherings bring folks together and provide an opportunity to meet new contacts and strengthen existing relationships.”
According to GPA, the Port of Brunswick achieved a record year, handling 901,912 units of autos and heavy equipment in 2024. While GPA makes on-terminal improvements to effectively manage the growing volume, the Corps’ focus will be to upgrade the shipping channel to accommodate larger ships.
At the Savannah State of the Port, Sturgeon was joined by Jonathan Broadie, chief of Navigation Branch, and Kimberly Garvey, Planning Branch chief.
GPA reported a 12.5 percent increase in container volumes compared to the previous year, making Savannah the fastest growing container gateway on the U.S. East and Gulf coasts.
The District remains dedicated to building strong partnerships and looks forward to the continued development of the Brunswick and Savannah ports.
