Blue Ridge Connector
Extending the Port of Savannah’s reach into Northeast Georgia
The Blue Ridge Connector – the link between Savannah and Northeast Georgia
Situated in the heart of the manufacturing and logistics corridor along Interstate 85, the Blue Ridge Connector (BRC) in Hall County will be the Georgia Ports Authority’s second Network Georgia facility. The location was chosen based on market research and site selection criteria, which included connections to Norfolk Southern rail and proximity to the National Highway Freight Network. The BRC will serve as an important region for the production of heavy equipment, food, forest products and retail distribution.
In addition to serving existing port customers, the inland terminal will also act as an economic development tool, drawing new investment from business and industry to Hall and its surrounding counties. This dynamic has already been proven at the Appalachian Regional Port. GE Appliances, Huali Floors, SK Battery and the Hanwha Q Cells solar panel factory have located or expanded within the ARP service area since its opening in 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
Benefits of the Blue Ridge Connector
Fewer Trucks on Local Highways
18 million truck-miles removed from Georgia roadways in the facility’s opening year, growing to 43 million truck-miles removed in 2045.
New Jobs
9,682 jobs in Hall County are supported by port activity. (*SOURCE: FY2021 Economic Impact Study by the UGA Terry College of Business)
Increased Economic Development
The inland terminal will act as an economic development tool, drawing new investment from business and industry to Hall and its surrounding counties. The Blue Ridge Connector will create 20 new direct jobs and serve as a magnet for new economic development.
Improved Environmental Benefits
Hall County residents should expect to see positive local environmental benefits stemming from this facility. $66.5 million in Avoided Emission costs.
Reduced Impact to Surrounding Area
Providing five-day a week service, the Blue Ridge Connector will operate from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. It will be served by 14 hybrid electric rubber-tired gantry cranes. The cranes will use special “whisper” movement alarms that use white noise, rather than the typical three-tone alarms.
Less Impact to Local Highways
Avoided Pavement Maintenance Costs of $15.9 million.
