News & Updates
Florida receives the most Port Infrastructure Development Grant Program funds of any state
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Maritime Administration (MARAD) today announced that it has awarded more than $280 million in discretionary grant funding through the new Port Infrastructure Development Program. This funding is designed to improve port facilities at or near coastal seaports.
Florida received the most funds of any state, with $44 million for infrastructure improvements to utilize port resources more efficiently and expedite the processing of agricultural products at Port Miami and $14 million for Port Canaveral to demolish an obsolete pier, dredge channels, construct an 880-foot long wharf, and address infrastructure needs around the port. This funding ultimately allow these two Florida ports to modernize their burgeoning operations.
“Our ports are an integral component of our Nation’s economic success,” Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao said. “As the Administration continues to invest in America’s infrastructure, this program will further modernize and improve the efficiency of our waterways.”
The Port Infrastructure Development Program supports efforts by ports and industry stakeholders to improve facility and freight infrastructure to ensure our nation’s freight transportation needs, present and future, are met. The program provides capital financing and project management assistance to improve port capacity and efficiency.
“These incredible investments in Florida’s seaports demonstrate our federal partners’ commitment to the state’s seaports. The ports work together seamlessly to create a system that makes Florida an international hub for imports and exports, which benefits every Florida community,” said Doug Wheeler, President & CEO of the Florida Ports Council. “Today is great day for not only PortMiami and Port Canaveral, but for businesses and consumers across Florida.”