The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has given the green light to the Port of Charleston to deepen its harbor, a project port officials say is key to remaining a top destination for container ships on the East Coast.

The decision allows the South Carolina Ports Authority to deepen its harbor from 45 feet to 52 feet. The next step is a report from the Army Corps’ chief of engineers, expected in September, which will then be transmitted to Congress for approval. However, the feasibility and environmental studies were the main hurdle for the project, analysts say.

More at the Wall Street Journal