The Port of Monroe has been awarded $11,051,586 through the Port Infrastructure Development Program, a federal grant awarded through the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD).
The award will go toward the port's Lake Erie Renewable Energy Resilience Project, funding four components: riverfront work, turning basin work, maritime readiness slip construction and shore power infrastructure.
"There are but a few rare moments in the port's history which can be considered monumental," said Port of Monroe Director Paul LaMarre III. "This grant award represents the single largest investment in the Port of Monroe's infrastructure since the organization's creation in 1932, and will have profound effects on the sustainability and enhancement of our maritime infrastructure, which supports the Port of Monroe's continued growth as a regional hub for both domestic and international renewable energy cargoes."
The port's application for this federal funding was supported by U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. MARAD is an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
"The Port of Monroe is not only a critical resource for manufacturers in Michigan and across the Great Lakes region, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient trade and transport of products that families and businesses rely on every day," Peters said. "I was pleased to support the port's effort to secure this funding, which will expand cargo capacity, increase economic activity for the region and strengthen supply chains. I'll keep fighting to make sure the port is treated fairly, has the resources necessary to compete on a level playing field and reaches its full potential."
"Senator Peters is the Port of Monroe's champion," LaMarre added. "His unequivocal support for the Great Lakes maritime industry and Michigan's role as the 'Great Lakes State' is second to none. His support of this grant and our continued efforts is humbly appreciated and will have far-reaching effects on our port's future."
