WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity making $4.8 million available in Fiscal Year 2024 funds through the United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP).

The USMHP funds projects that increase the movement of freight on America’s navigable waterways. Where water-based transport is available, it provides the most efficient, effective, and sustainable option for freight movement. The USMHP strengthens the nation’s supply chains, helps reduce emissions, and eases congestion on roads and rail.

Since the inception of the Marine Highway Program, MARAD has awarded more than $103 million to eligible public and private organizations for marine highway services. These investments in our marine highways have created viable maritime options for shippers around the nation, and have funded critical freight infrastructure, both of which promote supply chain resilience.

USMPH evaluation criteria include, among other things, the effect on movement of goods, level of non-federal funding investment, project readiness, consideration of climate change and sustainability, equity, and workforce development.

Applications must be submitted through grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EST on July 12, 2024. For additional information, visit the USMHP website here. Potential applicants may also contact the USMHP staff via email at mh@dot.gov or by phone at 202-366-1123.