Port Tampa Bay to boost capacity by 60% with federal grant

Port Tampa Bay has received a $19.8 million grant as part of the US Department of Transportation’s INFRA Grant programme to fund an inter-modal expansion project.

According to a statement, the port will use the funds to expand container capacity by 60%, increase the number of deep draft container vessels the port can receive, improve efficiency with a state-of-the-art truck gate, and improve rail access.

Additionally, it says the INFRA grant will enable it to meet existing market demand by expediting construction of a new 1,3000 foot-long berth and 30-acre container terminal yard.

Florida-based businesses such as importers, exporters and manufacturers will benefit, the port claims, and the expansion will also lead to emission reductions and improved health and safety measures.

“This grant, combined with Port Tampa Bay and Florida’s investment, will provide long term-term benefits for the logistics supply chain as Florida’s population growth continues to grow,” said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO.

“I want to thank Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao for awarding our port the INFRA grant so that we can continue to expand service to our community and region.”

In addition to the INFRA grant, the project will be completed with funding from the state, federal government, and the port.

Port Tampa Bay has seen substantial expansion in its containerized cargo business lines in recent years, and this project will complement that growth.

https://www.porttechnology.org/news/port-tampa-bay-to-boost-capacity-by-60-with-federal-grant/