PhilaPort receives $20.3 million federal grant

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The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded the Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) a $20.3 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America grant to build a new 100,000 square-foot warehouse at Tioga Marine Terminal.

The project, developed in a collaborative between Delaware River Stevedores, the facility’s terminal operator, and PhilaPort, will help the port meet growing demand and attract more business.

“With this grant PhilaPort is able to meet the demands of the current market and add much needed capacity in the warehouse space,” said Jeff Theobald, PhilaPort Executive Director and CEO. “We receive calls daily from shippers looking for dry storage. With the construction of a new 100,000 square-foot warehouse, we will have the ability to attract new business, that will result in the creation of additional family sustaining jobs for the region.”

Earlier this year, the state invested $246 million into the port to improve regional economic stability and continue modernization efforts. The state also invested $293 million in 2016 for the port’s infrastructure, warehousing, and equipment.

Funding has been used to build two warehouses, install three super post-Panamax cranes at the Packer Avenue Marine terminal, and develop the Southport Auto Terminal.

Gov. Tom Wolf and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) visited the port on Friday to celebrate the federal grant.

“The Port of Philadelphia is a critical link in our nation’s supply chains – by moving commerce through this region, these waterways create and sustain good-paying union jobs and spur economic growth,” Casey said. “The infrastructure law has already invested tens of millions of dollars in PhilaPort, including much of this $20 million grant for Tioga Marine Terminal, and this is just the beginning.”

Recent investments have led to PhilaPort experiencing record-breaking cargo volumes and nearly 60 percent container growth. The port has also become a larger player in global trade.

In August 2022, Wan Hai Lines completed its maiden call to Philadelphia, expanding trade between Pennsylvania and Asia. Wan Hai Lines will have a weekly container service making calls from Philadelphia to Asian markets in China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, marking the first time Philadelphia will have a direct, weekly service to that international region.