For the second time this year, the public marine terminals at the Port of Baltimore handled more autos in one month than in any other month in the Port’s history. In October, 42,830 cars came through Baltimore’s public docks, breaking the record of 38,053 cars that was set in March. Before March, the Port’s previous record for most cars handled was 37,552 in July 2008, before the national economic recession. October’s total is also 25 percent higher than October 2009’s total of 34,057 cars.

“These automobile numbers demonstrate that the Port of Baltimore is successfully weathering the storm that is the recent national economic downturn,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “This is good news for the thousands of men and women that depend on the Port-related jobs to support their families. A strong Port of Baltimore helps build a stronger Maryland.”

In a challenging economic climate, this news provides another boost for the Port’s auto business. Currently, autos are up 33 percent over the same time last year. Earlier this year, BMW began shipping 50,000 new cars annually through Baltimore for the next five years. That agreement is generating about 200 new jobs. Also, Ford began shipping their Fiesta car through the Port this year. Approximately 1,150 direct jobs at the Port are generated by the Port’s auto business.

In 2009, the Port of Baltimore handled about 375,000 cars. Baltimore ranks second among all U.S. ports for exporting cars.

During the summer, the Port announced it had handled more TEU containers for three consecutive months than at any other time in its history.

The Port of Baltimore generates about 16,700 direct jobs. Out of about 360 U.S. ports, Baltimore is ranked number one for handling imported roll on/roll off (farm and construction equipment) and imported forest products, gypsum, and sugar. The Port is responsible for about $3.7 billion in personal wage and salary income. Activities at the Port of Baltimore generate nearly $400 million in state and local taxes.