February 28, 2005

Governor Perry announces $5.2 million funding to extend rail capacity at the Port of Corpus Christi
Military operations to be enhanced by infrastructure improvements

Governor Perry was on hand last week at the Port of Corpus Christi, to announce his plan to provide financial assistance in the amount of $5.2 million to the Port of Corpus Christi for the purpose of significantly enhancing the rail capacity and military cargo loading capability of the port. This objective will be accomplished through the funding of critically needed rail infrastructure improvements and repairs. The state’s investment, which is predicated upon long-term utilization of the port for strategic military deployments, will allow the port to double its throughput capacity for military shipments as well as provide additional capabilities for handling commercial cargoes.

The Department of Defense (DOD) and Maritime Administration have designated the Texas seaports of Corpus Christi and Beaumont as the Strategic Military Deployment Seaports for the Gulf Coast. Of the nation’s 19 seaports with this designation, Corpus Christi and Beaumont have been the two busiest commercial ports with over 150 ships handled in the last two years. During that time frame, approximately forty percent of all military equipment moving through U.S. seaports has passed through Texas. This workload is expected to continue in the future as Operation Iraq Freedom continues; additional brigade size units are assigned to Texas, and other troops and equipment return to the United States from overseas bases.

The State is continuing to partner with DOD as it seeks to transform our nation’s military forces to meet the threats of the future. Texas’ strategic seaports will continue to play a major role in this process as troops and cargo are deployed worldwide to respond to national defense priorities.

“This is a fine example of the partnerships that have been created in support of our vital Texas military installations and strategic seaport facilities and the Port of Corpus Christi stands ready to further meet the needs of our military operations,” said Ruben Bonilla, Port Commission Chairman.

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