I hope everyone had a wonderful Fourth of July holiday weekend, celebrating the freedom of our great country. As we reflect on the values that make America strong, we are excited to launch this new quarterly newsletter to keep our community and stakeholders informed and engaged with important developments at the Port of Gulfport.
Through this newsletter, we aim to share interesting and pertinent information, including highlights from projects and initiatives that are shaping the future of the Port. This month, I am pleased to update you on our efforts to secure federal funding through several key grant programs. These are vital to enhancing our infrastructure, safety, and operational efficiency.
Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP)/Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grants – Port of Gulfport Intermodal Efficiency, Safety, and Expansion Project
The Port recently submitted identical grant applications to the USDOT PIDP and INFRA grant programs. The estimated $62 million project, with a 20% MSPA match, includes:
- East Pier Expansion: Increasing berthing space by 510 feet for various vessels.
- East-West Pier Rail Connector: Connecting rail systems on both piers to improve efficiency and support weekly express trains to the Midwest.
- West Pier Rail Extension: Adding rail and improving the intermodal yard for future demand.
- Electrical Relocation: Burying powerlines underground to enhance safety and resiliency.
Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant – Port of Gulfport Safety and Access Study
In partnership with the Gulf Regional Planning Commission (GRPC), we are pursuing a USDOT SS4A planning grant to improve traffic, pedestrian, and bicycle safety and mobility on roadways near the Port of Gulfport’s main terminal and the Cotton Compress site. The estimated $344,000 project includes a 20% MSPA match.
EPA Zero Emission Technology Deployment Grant – Port of Gulfport Equipment and Infrastructure Transformation Project
The Port is committed to reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. Partnering with our stevedoring companies, Ports America and SSA Marine, we are applying for funding to acquire zero-emission cargo-handling equipment, install charging infrastructure, and provide shore power to the East and West Piers. The estimated $64.5 million project includes a combined 10% match from MSPA and our partners.
EPA Climate and Air Quality Planning Grant – Port of Gulfport’s Roadmap to Emissions Reduction and Port Resiliency
This planning project involves emissions inventory, reduction strategy analysis, and workforce planning. The estimated $1.8 million project requires no matching funds.
We are excited about these developments and the positive impact they will have on our port and community. We look forward to keeping you informed through this newsletter as we continue to work towards a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.
Best,
Jon Nass,
CEO & Executive Director
Port of Gulfport