The Port of New York and New Jersey recorded an all-time record for cargo volume in 2011, surpassing the previous record set in 2007 before the start of the global economic downturn.
The facility handled 5.5m TEUs (20-foot equivalent units) – almost 4 per cent more than in 2010, according to a press release from the port authority.
Loaded TEU imports rose 4 per cent to 1.56m TEUs, while loaded exports increased 6.6 per cent to 918,316 TEUs.
During the same period, most major ports in the US reported either stable cargo volumes or declines during the year, the report said.
The Port of New York and New Jersey is the largest on the US East Coast and the third largest in the country behind Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The port’s on-dock rail system – known as ExpressRail – also set a new record in 2011, handling 422,144 containers, or 12 per cent more than in 2010.
Over the coming years, the facility said it will continue to make significant investments in its port related infrastructure to ensure its continued status as an industry leader and primary source of jobs and economic activity for the region.
Port Authority Chairman David Samson said US$1bn will be invested in raising the roadway of the Bayonne Bridge, as well as port roadway improvements, harbor deepening and Express Rail.
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