The Port of Hueneme has secured $11.25 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP).
The funding, awarded on 28 April, will support wharf and berth upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency at the California port, which serves as a major gateway for fresh produce and automobile imports.
Jason Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners, said: “Strategic investments like this ensure the Port of Hueneme remains a reliable, forward-looking gateway for global trade.
“This funding will allow us to continue delivering economic value for our region while supporting a more resilient national supply chain.”
The infrastructure programme forms part of the port’s wider long-term capital development strategy and builds on a previous $80 million award received through the California State Transportation Agency’s (CalSTA) Port and Freight Infrastructure Program (PFIP).
According to the port, the upgrades will increase berth capacity, strengthen operational resilience, and support future cargo demand while enhancing navigational safety.
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A dredging component included within the project will complete the Port of Hueneme’s 25-year harbour deepening programme, allowing the facility to safely accommodate larger vessels.
Approximately 25,300 cubic yards of berth-side sand removed during dredging operations will also be used to replenish a nearby beach in the City of Port Hueneme.
The project is additionally expected to support workforce development opportunities across Ventura County and reinforce the port’s role within California’s freight network.
Kristin Decas, CEO and Port Director of the Port of Hueneme, stated: “We are grateful for the Administration’s investment in our port which positions us to grow import/export opportunities and create good-paying jobs for our community.
“It takes a strong delegation of congressional leaders including U.S. Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla, and U.S. Representatives Julia Brownley, Vince Fong, and John Garamendi to make these projects happen.”
The funding award comes after MARAD announced a wider $488.6 million investment programme on 31 March, aimed at modernising American ports, shipyards and broader maritime infrastructure.
For more information:
Port of Hueneme – https://www.portofhueneme.org/
