PortMiami has welcomed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and described it as landmark legislation that will help the US maritime industry recover.
In a statement, the Port said the WRDA, which was passed by the US Congress on the 21 December, was a critical first step towards achieving the full maintenance of the US’ shipping channels and will enable essential infrastructure investment at the nation’s busiest ports.
The Act will lead to full use and equitable distribution of the Harbour Maintenance Tax (HMT). According to PortMiami this will contribute to its seaport strength and resiliency, as it continues to grow and be a source for jobs and investment.
PortMiami projects eligible for HMT funds include the replacement of the berth bulkhead, critical environmental remediation programmes such as coral relocation, artificial reef creation, and plans for rises in sea level.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, said, “Miami-Dade County is grateful to the efforts and dedicated support of the Miami-Dade Congressional delegation for the passage of the WRDA 2020. These funds will contribute to our economic recovery as we work to bring jobs back and build a more resilient PortMiami.”
Ports in the US had a mixed 2020, with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic combining with the lingering US-China trade war.
Many saw their traffic plummet at the beginning of the year, particularly the key gateways with China on the West Coast.
However, by December volume had largely resumed and the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach all saw either record volume or container equipment moves.
