Port of Virginia kicks off first phase of port deepening project

Crews began dredging work at the Port of Virginia on Dec. 1, launching the first phase of a project to deepen the port to 55 feet to accommodate larger ships.

The digging began two-and-a-half years ahead of schedule, port officials said in a press release.

"The container ships are getting bigger and require more water depth to safely operate and we are committed to working with our customers to meet their needs today, tomorrow and decades from now," said John Reinhart, the Virginia Port Authority's chief executive officer and executive director, in a press release.

The port's project preparations, collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the support of state and federal elected officials were factors in the port security final, early approval to begin the project, authority officials said.

Safe, two-way flow of ultra-large container vessels, unrestricted by tide or channel width, will be a significant competitive advantage for Virginia, said Reinhart.

"Deep, wide channels will support many Virginia businesses and fuel cargo growth, job creation and economic investment across the commonwealth," he said.