Skip to main content

MDOT accepting applications for maritime and port facility grants

Fast facts:

  • The Michigan Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grant Program is now accepting applications to support commercial port improvement projects.
  • One-time $5 million in funding available in Fiscal Year 2024.
  • Grant applications are due June 3.

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced the Michigan Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grant Program is now accepting applications to support commercial port infrastructure improvement projects. The program's goal is to strengthen Michigan's economic competitiveness, reduce the cost of freight transportation, improve reliability, and mitigate the impact of freight movement on the environment.

"MDOT looks forward to the ways the program will help build upon our existing partnerships with the state’s maritime industry and help support our critical maritime assets," said State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich. "Marine transportation is an essential component to Michigan's freight transportation system diversity, which is one of the state's competitive advantages."

Signed into law in 2022 creating the Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grant Program, MDOT’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 budget included a one-time appropriation of $5 million for the program.

Applications are due by June 3. Project selections will be made within 90 days of the application deadline. It takes approximately six weeks for the necessary approvals and to award a contract. A contract is required before any reimbursable costs can be incurred.

Completed applications and any questions should be submitted to Elisha Wulff, MDOT freight policy specialist, at WulffE@Michigan.gov or call 517-243-3620.

Michigan's 3,200 miles of shoreline along four of the five Great Lakes contain 33 active cargo ports that ship or receive cargo. A critical part of the overall freight transportation system, Michigan's ports handle 51.7 million tons of cargo valued at $4.1 billion annually.

Media Contact: