The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has awarded US$4.85 million in grants to five marine highway projects in Louisiana, Puerto Rico, Washington, and West Virginia through the United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP).
This funding aims to enhance waterborne freight services, alleviate landside congestion, and improve the surface transportation system by leveraging navigable waterways.
“The Biden-Harris Administration’s investments in the United States Marine Highway Program are to move goods more quickly and efficiently, which is especially important considering the current record demand for shipping,” stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
He added, “With the funding announced today, we’re further modernizing operations at our ports and waterways and strengthening supply chains, which will help lower costs of essential goods for American families.”
These grants will fund the use of American-made materials and equipment, strengthening domestic manufacturing and supply chains.
Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips, commented: “The USMHP is a tremendous opportunity to increase waterborne transport through expanding the use of America’s navigable waters and through this expansion, to further integrate our waterways into the nation’s surface transportation system. This is particularly important as water-based transport is the most efficient, effective, and sustainable option.”
Supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which allocates US$17 billion to upgrade ports and waterways, this initiative contributes to nearly 600 projects designed to accelerate goods movement, lower costs, and reduce carbon emissions.
Selected Projects Receiving Funding:
- Alexandria, Louisiana: Central Louisiana Regional Port awarded US$2,524,977.
- Vieques, Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico Integrated Transportation Authority awarded US$711,491.
- Everett, Washington: Osprey Logistics LLC awarded US$881,330.
- Vancouver, Washington: Tidewater Barge Line Inc. awarded US$454,436.
- Follansbee, West Virginia: Empire Diversified Industries awarded US$277,766.
