Sustainability is not just about protecting our planet; it is a holistic approach that embraces the well-being of people and communities. It’s about nurturing quality of life, fostering community growth, and ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to thrive. Education, Jobs, and Workforce Development Support Wesley Community Centers of Savannah The GPA donated $50,000 to the Wesley Community Centers of Savannah and committed an additional $100,000 over the next two years to renovate and reopen the Wesley Early Childhood Education Center. YES + Student Mentoring Program Since 2018 the YES+ (Youth Learning Equipment and Safety) workforce development program has provided high school graduates opportunities to start their careers at GPA. Internship Program GPA’s annual internship program offers college students valuable hands-on experience at one of the nation’s busiest seaports. Interns contribute to GPA and leave with tangible achievements to present to future employers. Focus on the future: We are Listening to the Community At GPA, our commitment to a better future extends beyond our terminals and into the heart of the community. We are building a foundation for long-term growth, sustainability, and opportunity through strategic investments and initiatives, such as empowering the next generation, creating career pathways, investing in housing and community development, and developing sustainable infrastructure for a greener tomorrow. Traffic & Emissions What We’re Doing: • New Overpass: GPA is investing $29 million in an overpass at Ocean Terminal that will eliminate truck traffic from local roads by connecting directly to U.S. Route 17—no taxpayer dollars needed. • Truck Emissions Reduction Grant: GPA secured $7.5 million for domestic renewable diesel fuel through the 2023 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. • Automated Traffic Management: RFID tags and GPS now guide truck drivers, reducing the time spent in terminals by 15 minutes and reducing fuel costs and emissions. • Mason Mega Rail Project: This initiative doubles rail capacity to 1 million containers annually while easing traffic congestion near Garden City Terminal. • Jimmy DeLoach Parkway Extension: This dedicated highway provides truckers direct terminal access, reducing noise, congestion, and emissions on local commuter roads. Boosting Workforce Development & Jobs What We’re Doing: • In addition to the programs listed above, over the next six years big ship berth capacity will double, creating more opportunities for growth and employment. SPOTLIGHT Workforce Housing Initiative In 2023, GPA committed $6 million over eight years to enhance housing in near-port communities, benefiting low- and moderate-income homeowners, first-time buyers, and renters. In its first 10 months, the program allocated $625,000 for 60 home repairs, 14 home purchases, and 6 new constructions in partnership with the City of Savannah, Housing Savannah, Inc., and the Community Housing Services Agency, Inc. 11
