The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (Marad) has awarded $774 million in funding through its Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), supporting 37 projects across coastal seaports, Great Lakes ports, and inland river systems.
According to the agency, the investments are aimed at improving port capacity, efficiency, and resiliency within the U.S. supply chain. Funded projects span a range of infrastructure upgrades, including rail tunnel expansions, cargo handling improvements, security screening enhancements, and terminal development.
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the funding reflects a broader effort to strengthen domestic freight networks and support economic activity tied to port operations. Marad Administrator Stephen M. Carmel added that the projects are intended to improve both near-term throughput and long-term competitiveness across the maritime sector.
Among the announced projects, Port Canaveral has been selected to receive a $20.21 million PIDP grant to upgrade its North Cargo Berths 1 and 2. The berths primarily serve tanker vessels transporting refined petroleum products that supply Central Florida’s transportation network.
The berth improvements are part of a broader $37.43 million port-led initiative to modernize aging bulkheads, extending their service life by an estimated 20 to 30 years while increasing capacity for bulk cargo. Transportation fuels currently account for more than 50% of the port’s annual cargo tonnage.
The latest round of awards follows a March announcement from Marad detailing $488.6 million in PIDP funding for ports, shipyards, and related maritime infrastructure. That funding effort is part of a broader federal push to expand U.S. maritime capacity and attract private investment into port and shipbuilding communities.
As outlined by the agency, at least 25% of PIDP funding is reserved for small projects at small ports. The program typically carries an 80% federal cost share, though that percentage may be increased for rural projects or smaller port initiatives. Eligible applicants include port authorities, state and local governments, Tribal nations, and other qualifying entities. Applications for the current funding round are due June 27, 2026.
The PIDP program, administered by Marad, is designed to modernize port infrastructure and reduce bottlenecks in freight movement. The agency noted that improvements funded under this round include adaptable dock systems for all-weather operations and the construction of new cargo terminals aimed at increasing handling efficiency.
The U.S. port system includes more than 300 facilities operated by a mix of public and private entities, playing a central role in the movement of goods, energy products, and bulk commodities.
Marad has not yet released the full list of award recipients. WorkBoat will report on the complete list of awardees once it is announced.
