HOUSTON, Nov. 6, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Harris County voters gave the Port of Houston Authority the green light Tuesday to continue construction at the Bayport Container and Cruise Terminal, increase security and underwrite environmental projects by supporting a $250 million bond proposal.
"We're extremely pleased Harris County voters supported the Port of Houston," said Jim Edmonds, Port of Houston Authority Chairman. "This bond will go a long way to ensure we continue to provide a thriving, competitive port that delivers jobs and economic growth to our region."
The Port of Houston bond garnered a broad base of community support, including endorsements from the Houston Chronicle, The Greater Houston Partnership, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and several area civic groups.
More than $100 billion worth of goods pass through the Port each year, making the Port of Houston a strong economic engine for Texas.
"A safe, thriving Port of Houston is vital to Houston's overall economy," Edmonds said. "Business at our Bayport Container and Cruise Terminal is increasing rapidly and this bond was needed to ensure we can keep up with the growing demands of container shipping."
The Port of Houston is the largest foreign waterborne tonnage port in the U.S., second largest in total tonnage and it is the tenth largest port in the world.
A recent economic study concluded that approximately 785,000 jobs in Texas are related to activity at the Port of Houston. These jobs generate over $39 billion in personal income annually.
The Port of Houston has an annual economic value of nearly $118 billion. The port is a major economic engine for the Houston/Harris County region, Texas and the nation.
CONTACT: Outreach Strategists Mustafa Tameez 713-247-9600