The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced an investment of 13.28 million USD in marine highway infrastructure projects across the United States.
The funding, delivered through the Maritime Administration (MARAD), will be distributed among 11 projects in seven states as part of the U.S. Marine Highway Programme.
The funding is intended to support both public and private sector partners in developing supply chains along designated marine highway routes. Projects include initiatives such as transporting waste via waterways in Oregon and improving barge dock facilities in Pennsylvania. The aim is to strengthen resilience within freight networks and provide alternatives to road and rail transport.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said:Investing in marine highways will strengthen the Great Lakes economy and other regional communities. We’ll deliver jobs, boost provide a boost for local industries, and strengthen infrastructure our economy relies on.
The U.S. Marine Highway network covers more than 27,000 miles and includes 35 designated routes across 41 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories. The system is intended to support supply chains, infrastructure operations, and maritime employment.
All grant recipients under the programme will be required to comply with “Buy America, Build America” provisions, in line with federal policy requirements under the current administration.
MARAD Administrator Steve Carmel said:The marine highway program is a vital opportunity to expand the nation’s freight capacity. By fully integrating our navigable waterways into the national transportation system, we keep the American economy moving forward.
