The state plans to invest $2.7 million in the Erie Western PA Port Authority as a way to spur economic development through the Port of Erie, Gov. Tom Wolf recently announced.
The investment was made possible through the Multimodal Transportation Fund.
The investment brings the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s three-year commitment to the Port of Erie to $11.59 million. This includes a $6.73 million grant award to Donjon Shipyard and Repair.
Projects include $90,000 for a road-salt pad expansion at the terminal, $350,000 toward a new mobile crane and $1.6 million for the reconstruction of the northern seawall on East Dobbins Landing.
“Erie’s port plays an important role in the state’s commerce and goods movement,” Leslie S. Richards, Department of Transportation secretary, said. “This is another example of how transportation investment supports jobs and stimulates local economies.”
Cargo activity at the port supports 757 jobs, and creates $49.6 million in direct and indirect wages, according to the July 2018 Economic Impact Study commissioned by the Erie Western PA Port Authority. These positions generate $5.1 million annually in state taxes, the study said.
Direct business revenue associated with marine activity at the port is more than $63.6 million, according to the study.