Va extends deadline on port proposals

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia officials are pushing back the timetable to review four proposals to take over the operation of some of the state's port terminals.

The Virginian-Pilot reports that officials announced Friday the deadline for more detailed proposals from the four interested companies was extended until Nov. 1. The companies had faced an Oct. 5 deadline.

Officials also left open the date to select a preferred proposal. Three weeks ago officials said their preference would be announced Oct. 15.

It was the second time the timetable was extended.

The Port of Virginia is the third-largest port on the East Coast, but state officials have been frustrated that it hasn't rebounded from the recession as quickly as its competitors in New York and Savannah, Ga., have.