After 15 years of effort by the state of Texas, in October 2013, Congress approved funding to deepen the Sabine-Neches channel in the southeast part of the state.
The equivalent of a large interstate highway, the channel directly and indirectly supports thousands of jobs and, with this funding, will be able to boost the local economy even further.
The depth of the Sabine-Neches channel will be increased from 40 to 48 feet, making it competitive with all other channels on the Gulf Coast, which is particularly significant now that the Panama Canal is being widened. The public ports in Port Arthur and Beaumont will see increased business, and plants and refineries in the area will be able to run at full capacity, and even expand.
Already a significant player in the United States maritime industry, the Sabine-Neches channel ranks first in bulk liquid cargo, commercial military outloads, and crude oil imports. Once it is deepened, it will likely take the lead in other areas as well.
The deepening of the canal won’t begin until 2014 or 2015, and the process will likely take between ten and fifteen years to finish. However, the impact on the economy – with added jobs and more cargo passing through the port – will have a lasting impact on the growth of Southeast Texas and beyond.
Now is the time to pursue employment in the maritime industry, and employers are looking for qualified candidates. Don’t miss out on the opportunities as the industry is booming. If you are seeking employment, see our job listings page for opportunities available in the Gulf South and beyond.
