WASHINGTON, D.C. — Nearly $489 million in federal funding will be distributed to modernize U.S. ports and strengthen supply chains, with the goal of improving shipping efficiency and reducing costs for consumers.
What This Means for You
- Ports may move goods faster, helping reduce shipping delays and costs
- Funding targets infrastructure upgrades and supply chain efficiency
- Smaller ports are guaranteed a share of the funding
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration announced $488,628,000 through the Port Infrastructure Development Program, a federal grant initiative that supports upgrades to ports, shipyards, and related facilities.
Ports—facilities where ships load and unload cargo—play a central role in moving goods through the economy, and improvements to their infrastructure can affect delivery times and prices.
Where the Money Will Go
The funding will support projects aimed at improving how ports handle cargo, including upgrades to loading and unloading systems, modernization of facilities, and efforts to streamline how goods move through supply chains.
Officials said the investments are also intended to support seafood-related industries and strengthen domestic maritime capabilities.
Focus on Smaller Ports
At least 25 percent of the funding, or $122,157,000, is reserved for smaller-scale projects at smaller ports.
Eligible applicants include port authorities, state and local governments, Tribal nations, and other entities involved in port operations.
New Priorities for Funding
The program includes updated criteria that prioritize projects located in Qualified Opportunity Zones—designated areas intended to encourage economic investment—as well as projects that incorporate new technologies or support broader freight transportation goals.
Officials said these priorities are designed to improve efficiency across multiple modes of transportation, including shipping, rail, and trucking.
Federal Perspective
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the funding reflects a focus on strengthening infrastructure tied to economic activity.
“We’re refocusing on what matters – revitalizing our ports with the latest technology and infrastructure to keep our economy humming,” Duffy said.
MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel said the investments are intended to improve supply chain reliability and reduce costs.
Next Steps
Applications for funding are open, with proposals due by Friday, June 27, 2026.
Details on eligibility and application requirements are available at https://www.maritime.dot.gov/sites/marad.dot.gov/files/2026-03/FY26%20PIDP%20NOFO%2003-27-2026.pdf.
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