Charleston projecting 7% growth

Charleston projecting 7% growth    The Port of Charleston handled 68,238 containers in May, 22 percent more than in May 2009. The port is projecting a 7 percent volume increase in the coming fiscal year, which begins July 1.
   The South Carolina State Ports Authority said its board has approved its budget for the coming fiscal year, including more than $77 million in terminal upgrades. It plans to invest $77 million in terminal improvements, equipment upgrades and new information systems.
   The largest area of spending is at existing facilities, totaling $35 million. More than $16 million is slated for construction of the new 286-acre container terminal at the former Navy Base.
   Non-container and breakbulk cargo handled at South Carolina's public port facilities in Charleston and Georgetown are expected to climb 53 percent next year.