U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced today that $40 million will go for critical hydrographic survey and chart projects across the United States that, he said, will strengthen the economy and create jobs in addition to supportiing safe and efficient marine commerce and trade.

The eight projects are being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

A Georgia/Florida project will get $3 million. The Brunswick, Ga. port is expanding after recent dredging operations. This will require update survey data for shippers and and naval submarines transiting the area.

A Florida/Alabama project will get $3.4 million. Three surveys cover 104 square nautical miles. These surveys encompass the safe transit lanes, anchorages and approaches to Pensacola. Safe transit relies on this information.