The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) has awarded the Port of Gulfport $11.25 million through the 2025 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), supporting a wider $24.5 million investment in port infrastructure.
The project is aimed at strengthening Gulfport’s role as a Strategic Seaport, expanding intermodal and container handling capacity, and improving resilience across critical Gulf Coast supply chain infrastructure.
Jon Nass, CEO and Executive Director, Port of Gulfport, said: “This award and project are the direct result of a true public-private partnership. With our stevedore Ports America contributing $9.5 million in private funding, MDOT contributing $2.6 million through a Strategic Multi-Modal Investment Fund grant and the $11.25 million PIDP award, we turned just over $1.2 million in port funding into more than $24.5 million in infrastructure improvements that strengthen our role as a Strategic Seaport, expand our intermodal capacity and improve resilience for the Gulf Coast supply chain.”
The funding package combines federal, state and private sector investment, underscoring the collaborative model behind US port infrastructure expansion.
READ: US allocates half a billion to modernise ports and supply chains
U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, stated: “The Port of Gulfport is a key American Strategic Seaport and a vital piece of our national security infrastructure. These improvements will strengthen the port’s defence mission and increase its commercial operations capacity. Gulfport remains crucial in improving US national security, increasing opportunities for job creators and leading in maritime innovation.”
Private terminal operator Ports America also highlighted the long-term operational impact of the investment.
Matt Leech, CEO, Ports America, said: “We are proud to partner with the Port of Gulfport on this important investment in the Port’s future. This project strengthens infrastructure, improves efficiency and creates new opportunities for growth across the Gulf Coast. Ports America is committed to working alongside the port to help drive long-term success for Gulfport and the region.”
For more information:
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration – https://www.transportation.gov/
