U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a $498 million investment to modernize ports across the country as part of the Maritime Administration (MARAD)’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP).
The program will deliver vital funding to 35 projects across 19 states, including $30.75 million for bustling Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The funding will go toward physically hardening the liquid bulk terminal, widening the slip to accommodate larger ships and strengthening the port's resilience to maintain critical fuel operations during severe weather, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
"The port is greatly appreciative to have received our full funding request for the Slip 1 Expansion Project," Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades, said in a statement. "The Broward County Board of County Commissioners and the port remain committed to ensuring our energy dominance in Florida and globally as part of the port’s strategic Master/Vision Plan."
The total public-private project is expected to cost $184.5 million and take up to four years to complete. The initial phase of construction isn't scheduled to begin until 2028.
"The strength of our nation’s economy is directly tied to the state of our ports," Duffy said in a statement accompanying Tuesday's announcement. "This nearly half-billion-dollar investment will deliver critical upgrades to ports across America so we can enhance supply chains, lower shipping costs, and create good-paying jobs for hardworking Americans. Under President Trump, America’s maritime dominance is coming back stronger than ever."
"The President’s commitment to modernizing our port and maritime infrastructure has resulted in an unprecedented investment that will empower local port communities to modernize their operations, integrate innovative technologies, and create safer working environments," added MARAD Administrator Stephen Carmel.
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