July 8, 2015
By Neal Tepel
New York, NY — The South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Sunset Park is being reactivated as a working maritime port facility. The terminal is a key maritime asset owned by New York City. This hub unused for several years is being turned into an important center for commerce. Hundreds of jobs will be created by this project.
The U.S. Maritime Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation have designated SBMT in New York harbor and nearby Red Hook Container Terminal as part of America’s Marine Highway System. Its expected that this deep water port will become an import facility for the nation.
“This is a big step towards putting our waterfront back to work. Soon, cargo ships that would have docked in New Jersey will be docking here in Brooklyn, bringing good jobs, taking trucks off our streets and helping spur this growing industrial hub,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “This transformation is happening because of the dogged advocacy of our congressional delegation, our partners in the City Council and our colleagues at the Port Authority, with whom we’ve worked together to bring this new port online.”
Brooklyn has a proud history of maritime commerce, and the activation of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal is a 'back to the future' moment. The Brooklyn port as a link to America’s Marine Highway is an important step for New York City. This project will infuse good jobs, transportation infrastructure, and community development that will revitalize neighborhoods. Opportunities for commerce and industry will be created as well as Cross-Hudson transportation capacity.
“The ILA is thrilled to celebrate the start of the Marine Highway operation between Red Hook and Port Newark container terminals,” said George Miranda, President, Teamsters Joint Council 16. “We congratulate the City, Maritime Administration, Port Authority and the terminal operators for making it happen. Our members are prepared to offer the best possible service to ensure success of this innovative program.”
