Stevens Towing pictured here towing Air Force One
Press Release
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration (MARAD) has awarded Stevens Towing Company a grant of $1,378,575. The family-owned business is one of 31 shipyards across the United States receiving a total of $19.6 million in modernization funding.
“Since our family business started in 1913 with a single boat, we've taken pride in providing good jobs while playing a vital role in America's maritime industry,” said company President Johnson Stevens. “We are grateful for the Maritime Administration's grant which will help us move one step closer towards our goal of a zero-emissions shipyard.”
According to the Maritime Administration, its grant program strives to help recipients “modernize, increase productivity, and expand local employment opportunities while competing in the global marketplace.” Stevens Towing will use its grant to help purchase a 820-metric ton travel lift to better maintain the company's shipyard.
“Logistics and transportation companies are an essential foundation of our country's economy,” said Stevens. “We are committed to doing all we can to help our country recover from the 2020 pandemic and thrive into the future.”
“These grants will help small businesses do what they do best: build essential infrastructure while creating long-term jobs for American workers,” said Lucinda Lessley, Acting Maritime Administrator.
The grants are going to shipyards in 15 states across the country as part of MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant Program. Stevens Towing received bi-partisan grant support from Congressman Jim Clyburn, Senator Tim Scott, Congresswoman Nancy Mace and Meggett Mayor Buster Herrington. Since 2008, the program has awarded $262.5 million to nearly 300 shipyards in 32 states and territories.
Stevens Towing Company, Inc. is a midsize freight transportation company based on Yonges Island, South Carolina just south of Charleston with a Mid-Atlantic operation based in Edenton, North Carolina. More than 140 Stevens Towing team members continue the family's 100+ year tradition of serving the maritime industry.
