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The Texas port Port Freeport has received a grant of $11 million from the U.S. Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) for the fiscal year 2025. This was approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) and is intended to make essential infrastructure improvements at the Velasco Terminal. The goal is to increase freight handling capacities and enhance operational efficiency.
Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission, commented on the benefits of the funding: “Improving our terminal capacities enables Port Freeport to operate more efficiently, serve our customers better, and capitalize on future growth opportunities that will create jobs and promote economic development in Brazoria County and beyond.” Giesecke also thanked political representatives Senator Ted Cruz, Senator John Cornyn, and Congressman Randy Weber for their support in securing these funds.
Planned improvements at the Velasco Terminal
The project includes the redesign of approximately 4 acres into a highly functional area for freight handling, aimed at improving efficiency, safety, and security. Planned measures include upgrading the surface from stabilized limestone to a durable concrete surface, installing advanced stormwater drainage systems, and adding high-mast lighting to support terminal operations.
Phyllis Saathoff, Executive Director and CEO of Port Freeport, emphasized the importance of these investments: “These improvements will enhance operational performance at the Velasco Terminal by increasing efficiency and supporting safe and reliable freight handling. Such investments enable Port Freeport to continue providing reliable services and adapt to the changing demands of maritime trade.”
The PIDP program provides federal funds for projects that improve the movement of goods through U.S. ports, thereby supporting a more efficient and resilient national supply chain. Port Freeport is among the leading ports for the export of crude oil and liquefied gas, ranking 6th nationally for chemicals and 13th for total foreign waterborne cargo. In Texas, the port ranks 4th in this category.
A 2022 economic impact study by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobs nationwide and has an overall economic output of $157.3 billion. Port Freeport serves numerous companies, including Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, BASF, ExxonMobil, and Volkswagen Group of America.
