PhilaPort Receiving $217 Million in Federal Funding to Expand Port; Increase Efficiency

Sept. 24, 2024 - The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority (PhilaPort) is receiving a total of $217,000,000 in funding to expand the operational capacity of the SouthPort terminal, along with increasing efficiency of shipment handling. This award is from the National Infrastructure Project Assistance (MEGA) Program, which was created and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

On Sept. 20, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5), Dwight Evans (D-PA-3), and Brendan Boyle (D-PA-2) announced the funding for PhilaPort.

“This funding will improve Philadelphia port infrastructure and will allow greater efficiency in handling and transporting goods,” said Congressman Boyle. “Most of all, this funding will create jobs by increasing trade, and enhancing global competitiveness. Philadelphia ports must always be kept updated and modernized to remain competitive in both the regional and global supply chain economy.”

The funding will expand PhilaPort’s operational capacity by creating more space for vessels to dock at the port and increase on and offloading efficiencies. Specifically, this funding will support the construction of a second berth, which will improve the port’s ability to on and offload goods from ships.

Additionally, the funding will support infill construction, which will expand the port by approximately ten acres.

PhilaPort, The Port of Philadelphia, is an independent agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania charged with the management, maintenance, marketing, and promotion of port facilities along the Delaware River in Pennsylvania, as well as strategic planning throughout the port district.

SOURCE: PhilaPort