By Second District · Published September 3, 2026 · Updated September 3, 2026
Quick answer
The Port of Virginia recently completed a $450 million dredging project to reach a depth of 55 feet, making it the deepest on the East Coast. The port supports an estimated 565,000 jobs statewide, though the exact number of port-related jobs specifically located within the boundaries of VA-02 remains unverified.
The Deepest Waters on the East Coast
In early 2026, the Port of Virginia completed a $450 million dredging project, deepening its commercial shipping channels and Norfolk Harbor to 55 feet. This makes it the deepest port on the U.S. East Coast.
The widening of the channel, finished in February 2024, now allows for two-way traffic of ultra-large container vessels. These infrastructure improvements are designed to keep the port globally competitive and efficient.
Following the $1.4 Billion Gateway Investment
The recent dredging is part of a broader $1.4 billion Gateway Investment Program. This program aims to expand the port's capacity and modernize its facilities to handle increasing trade volumes.
Key components of this investment include an $83 million expansion of the port's annual rail capacity to 2 million TEUs and a $650 million renovation of the North Berth at Norfolk International Terminals.
Beyond the Harbor: Impact on VA-02 and the Eastern Shore
While the physical port is located in Hampton Roads, its economic reach extends deeply into Virginia's 2nd Congressional District, including the Eastern Shore. In fiscal year 2022, the port supported over 565,000 jobs statewide and generated $124.1 billion in output sales.
The Eastern Shore relies on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and north-south freight rail service to access the port. This connection facilitates the export of local agricultural and seafood products, integrating rural economies into international markets.
The Supply Chain Lifeline
The port boasts the most expansive rail reach on the U.S. East Coast, featuring over 45 miles of on-terminal track and regular double-stack service to the Midwest. The expansion of the Central Rail Yard further increases capacity and efficiency.
These rail and road links, such as the Eastern Shore Railroad, are critical lifelines for the movement of goods. They support local businesses and industries far beyond the immediate harbor area.
Measuring Local Economic Realities
Despite the clear statewide benefits, measuring the precise local impact within VA-02 presents challenges. The exact number of port-related jobs located specifically within the district's boundaries requires more granular local economic data than what is currently available.
Sources
- Report: Port Helps Drive Economic Investment and Job Creation Throughout the Commonwealth — Port of Virginia. FY22 economic impact: 565,000 jobs, $124.1B output, $63B GSP.
- Construction Complete on U.S. East Coast’s Deepest Commercial Shipping Channel, Harbor — Port of Virginia. $450M dredging project completed to 55 feet; part of $1.4B Gateway Investment Program.
- Rail - America's Most Modern Rail Gateway — Port of Virginia. $83M invested in Central Rail Yard Expansion; 2M TEU annual rail capacity; expansive rail reach.
- Eastern Shore Regional Profile — Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Eastern Shore connected to Port of Virginia via Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and freight rail.
- The Port of Virginia is a Statewide Economic Engine – With or Without Water — Center for Economic and Community Engagement (Virginia Tech). Port has statewide economic impact beyond Hampton Roads.