This thesis contains an examination, analysis and commentary on the projected surge in the world's demand for coal as a principal energy source and how this impacts upon United States port development policy. It provides background on both the export coal trade and port development and then examines the central issues facing the federal government and the private sector as to how to increase port capacities to meet this new demand for export coal. A cost-benefit analysis of the alternative methods for coal related port development is conducted. This is followed by the presentation of an optimization model which can assist in prioritizing dredging projects in U.S. ports to gain maximum increased coal export capacity for a particular investment ceiling. Finally, a set of general and specific conclusions and recommendations are offered concerning changes necessary in the overall port development process in the United States. (Author).