The North Carolina State Ports Authority is extending its hours at the Port of Wilmington to increase productivity and to keep pace with its volume growth. The Port of Wilmington is one of the fastest growing ports on the U.S. East Coast by container volume percentage. “North Carolina’s ports are a conduit of business connecting global commerce with state industry.” Chief Executive Officer Paul J. Cozza said. “Our lack of congestion, efficient turn times and unrivaled customer service has led us to a nearly 20 percent container volume increase in fiscal year 2015 over this same period last year.” To ensure its customers the best possible terminal efficiency and trucker productivity, effective Monday, February 23, 2015, the Port of Wilmington will offer extended gate hours. The Port of Wilmington’s South Gate will be open from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. (remaining open through the lunch hour). “With the implementation of our new terminal operating system along with a recent surge in volumes we felt it necessary to extend our hours,” said Chief Operations Officer Jeff Miles. “One of our goals is to stay congestion free. This move will help us achieve that and will also assist in maintaining our high levels of productivity.” North Carolina’s Ports in Wilmington and Morehead City, plus inland terminals in Charlotte and in Greensboro, link the state’s consumers, businesses and industry to world markets, and serve as magnets to attract new business and industry while receiving no direct taxpayer subsidy. Port activities contribute statewide to 76,000 jobs and $700 million each year in state and local tax revenues.