The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) has announced $13.2 million in funding for 11 marine highway projects across seven states through the U.S. Marine Highway Program. The investments aim to strengthen supply chains, improve infrastructure, and enhance freight movement on inland and coastal waterways.

Projects include expanded barge capacity in the Pacific Northwest, cargo-handling upgrades in Great Lakes and Ohio River ports, and new routes such as a proposed containerized waste transport system between Washington and Oregon. Several initiatives also focus on improving terminal efficiency, modernizing equipment, and supporting agricultural and industrial logistics.

MarAd officials emphasized that marine highways play a critical role in reducing congestion on road and rail networks while boosting economic resilience. With more than 27,000 miles of navigable waterways, the program is seen as a key strategy for expanding U.S. freight capacity and supporting regional economies.