The US Department of Transportation has announced nearly US$500 million in funding for 35 port infrastructure projects across 19 states. The investment aims to modernise maritime facilities and strengthen cargo transportation networks.
The US$498 million will be distributed through the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). The programme supports improvements to coastal ports, inland waterways and Great Lakes facilities.
The City of Whittier in Alaska will receive US$50.6 million to replace DeLong Dock and install a seasonal floating dock. The project also includes three pedestal cranes and additional marine equipment.
Port Everglades in Florida has been allocated US$30.75 million to strengthen its liquid bulk terminal infrastructure. The project will also widen a vessel slip to accommodate larger ships and improve resilience during severe weather.
In North Carolina, the State Ports Authority will receive US$11.25 million for improvements at Morehead City. These include heavy-lift cargo infrastructure, new crane rails and extensions to on-dock railway facilities. The project also involves optical character recognition (OCR) technology for cargo tracking.
Meanwhile, Port Freeport in Texas will receive approximately US$9.4 million to replace an ageing bulk rice loader. The investment will also improve storage and berthing infrastructure.
The Port of Corpus Christi Authority has secured US$7.15 million to develop digital twin capabilities. The project will incorporate LiDAR, sonar equipment, cameras and sensors to improve infrastructure monitoring.
Additionally, the Red Wing Port Authority in Minnesota will receive US$10.16 million to modernise barge loading facilities. Rockport Harbor in Maine has been allocated US$698,750 for upgrades to commercial seafood handling infrastructure.
US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the investments aim to improve port infrastructure, strengthen supply chains and support employment across maritime communities.
According to MARAD, the PIDP programme focuses on improving port efficiency and reducing transportation costs. It also supports infrastructure modernisation across the United States.
The latest funding covers cargo-handling equipment, infrastructure resilience and digitalisation projects across different segments of the US port system.
