Pa. governor: Private investors interested in Philadelphia port

Pa. governor: Private investors interested in Philadelphia port Pennsylvania Gov. Edward G. Rendell said Monday there's “massive private sector interest in developing a new shipping terminal” on the Delaware River in the wake of an announcement this spring that the shipping channel will be deepened to 45 feet from 40 feet.
   “By this time next year I expect we will be announcing what the next generation of shipping in Philadelphia will look like,” Rendell said. “Several terminal operators and major international shipping lines have expressed interest developing a new state-of-the-art container terminal at Southport.”
   Southport is the name the port has given to a proposed new container terminal that would stretch south from the current Packer Avenue Marine Terminal toward the former Philadelphia Navy Yard.
   “I am convinced that a strategic private investment in the port now will pay huge dividends, not just in the near future but for many generations to come,” he said.
   “The commonwealth is partnering with the regional port authority and its terminal operators to upgrade and expand existing facilities. I am committed to developing the Port of Philadelphia so it can compete on the world stage.”
   Rendell made his remarks as he announced two new appointments to the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority. Former chief of staff John Estey will serve as chairman and attorney Cliff Haines will serve as a board member.