MARAD Awards $498M in Port Grants as AAPA Calls for New Appropriations

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced the recipients of its annual Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). While it is highlighted that the program is delivering funding to 35 projects across 19 states, at a total value of $498 million, it is the lowest level of funding through PIDP in five years and the final advanced appropriations funding for PIDP from the $2.25 billion included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed into law by President Joe Biden on November 15, 2021.

The grants are made under the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), which was authorized by Congress in 2010 and is administered by the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. PIDP aims to modernize America’s ports and strengthen supply chains, helping reduce time and costs for shippers. The U.S. has more than 300 ports operated by states, counties, municipalities, and private corporations, which can apply under the annual grant program.

“The strength of our nation’s economy is directly tied to the state of our ports,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “This nearly half-billion-dollar investment will deliver critical upgrades to ports across America so we can enhance supply chains, lower shipping costs, and create good-paying jobs.”

The largest single grant this year was awarded to Whittier, Alaska, which received more than $50.5 million for a project to replace its DeLong Dock with a new 1,150-foot facility. Alaska overall continues to receive a strong share of the total grants. An additional $26 million is awarded to support the Saint Herman Harbor recapitalization program. Anchorage received more than $6.3 million for stevedore facilities.

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →