Biden administration awards port funding ahead of Trump’s return

Before former President Donald Trump may return to the White House, the Federal government has handed out $3.4 billion in grants. These grants are connected to the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which is one of President Biden’s major legislative achievements.

Big Investment in Ports

Part of the grants, totaling $580 million, is aimed at the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). This money is part of a $2.25 billion fund set aside by the US Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the US Department of Transportation (USDOT). The funds are being given out in five rounds, ending in 2026, and are meant to upgrade port facilities across the United States.

USDOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted that the newly awarded grants will cover 31 projects in 15 states. He said these investments would expand port capacity, make operations more efficient, and help move goods faster through ports across the country.

Biggest Awards and Their Impact

The largest single grant, almost $54 million, is going to the Port of San Juan in Puerto Rico. This money will be used to modernize wharfs, making them better suited to handle cargo in the coming years.

Another significant grant of $53 million is heading to Port Everglades in South Florida, an area known for its rapid growth. This project will focus on buying eco-friendly equipment, including two Tier-4 diesel reach stackers, twelve hybrid pickup trucks, nearly two dozen electric terminal tractors, a small fleet of electric forklifts, six electric top loaders, and two hybrid cranes. Funds will also go towards planning future electrification projects.

Matt Kaplan to Lead New Great Lakes Authority

Garden City, Georgia, will receive $50 million to build a massive electric power network. This will draw from the Georgia Port Authority’s current substations and include a new substation to power the huge box terminal there.

Other grants include $50 million for the Port of Oakland, California, for repairs to docks and new crane replacements. Anchorage, Alaska, will also get around $50 million to build a new general cargo terminal. Smaller grants are being distributed to ports in Alaska, the Great Lakes, and the Pacific Northwest.

Future Uncertainties and Environmental Focus

There is uncertainty about what future funding programs might look like, especially as the Trump administration could make changes. This includes nearly $3 billion in other grants from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focused on “Green Ports.” These programs aim to make ports more environmentally friendly by reducing emissions and improving sustainability.

Getting the Job Done Quickly

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), a key trade group, has voiced the need to act quickly on infrastructure projects. Cary Davis, President and CEO of AAPA, emphasized the urgency: “Now comes the hard part. AAPA ports will continue working closely with our Federal Government partners to get the money deployed and shovels in the ground as soon as possible so we can complete these port infrastructure upgrades and realize the benefits to our nation’s supply chain and people faster.”

Moving Forward

The recent grants are seen as a push to complete major infrastructure projects before any potential changes in administration. With significant investments already promised, ports are gearing up to improve their facilities, expand capacity, and support faster goods movement—all essential for keeping America’s supply chain strong.