Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1 Million to Support Critical Infrastructure at Port of Port Arthur, Texas

Contact: Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
Thursday, May 8, 2014

WASHINGTON - U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $1 million to make critical improvements to the Port of Port Arthur, Texas. These improvements will support a larger berth expansion being undertaken by the Port, which will help expand export opportunities.

“The Obama Administration is committed to supporting our nation’s ports, which play a crucial role in increasing U.S. exports and strengthening our global competitiveness,” said Secretary Pritzker. “The EDA grant announced today will help expand export capabilities of U.S. businesses through critical infrastructure improvements at the Port of Port Arthur.”

The EDA grant will help the Port of Port Arthur complete an expansion of Berth-6 by upgrading drainage and site stabilization infrastructure. EDA’s investment will enable the port to make those important updates and facilitate the completion of the project. According to the grantee, this project will enable U.S. companies to export more than 1.5 million metric tons of products per year. Additionally, according to grantee estimates, more than 250 jobs will be created and $120 million in foreign direct investment will be attracted to East Texas as a result of the project.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.