US ports awarded millions for infrastructure work

The grants, which come from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, which has paid out more than US$2.2 billion for this fiscal year.

“Investing in America’s seaports is critical because estimates show their long-term return on investment is significant, bringing in $2 or as much as $3 for every single dollar spent,” said Chris Connor, president and CEO, AAPA.

“That’s why, on behalf of our industry, I sincerely thank Congress, Secretary Buttigieg and the staff at USDOT, with whom we work closely, for these much-needed RAISE grants benefitting not only our ports, but also the intermodal assets including bridges, roads, and railways that serve ports.”

Critical funding

One of the lucky recipients was PortMiami which will receive US$5 million to complete portions of a critical master plan to continue its Net Zero Program.

The plan aims for the port to achieve carbon neutrality, construct two inland cargo centers and reduce fossil fuel use.

Additionally, the Puerto Rico Port Authority will receive US$3 million to fund a feasibility study and other preparatory initiatives related for the improvement of Avenue C, a critical roadway link and the only connection to the Port’s eastern wharves.

This design will improve the efficiency of cargo operations and environmental impact at the port.

This year’s awards are split equally between rural and urban areas and almost three-quarters of the grants were awarded to projects in impoverished or historically disadvantaged areas.