MarAd Announces Port Grant Funding Availability

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced the availability of $488,628,000 in Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) funding March 26. 

At least 25 percent of the available funding — totaling $122,157,000 — is to be allocated for “small projects at small ports.” 

The online Notice of Funding Opportunity outlines application criteria. Applications must be received by June 27. For additional questions regarding PIDP grants, applicants are to email PIDPGrants@dot.gov. 

The department said selected projects will improve ports’ ability to load and unload goods, streamline supply chain movements, modernize ports’ ability to load and unload goods, streamline supply chains movements, modernize port infrastructure and operations and support seafood and seafood-related businesses. 

“The Trump administration is getting back to basics and investing hard-earned American dollars in restoring the nation’s maritime dominance,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said in making the announcement. “We’re refocusing on what matters – revitalizing our ports with the latest technology and infrastructure to keep our economy humming.” 

The United States has more than 300 ports operated by states, counties, municipalities and private corporations. This year’s revamped grant criteria included new priorities for projects located in Qualified Opportunity Zones, projects that incorporate innovative technology and those that support national multimodal freight goals. 

“Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Duffy, we are investing in much-needed port infrastructure that will strengthen our supply chains,” U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) Administrator Stephen M. Carmel said. “America’s ports fuel our economy, bolster domestic energy and cut costs for hardworking families, making them worthy of taxpayer investment.”