Port of Morgan City gets millions for cargo equipment

The Port of Morgan City will receive $3.3 million in federal funding for cargo loading equipment, the office of U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins announced Tuesday.

The $3,320,000 grants comes through the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration is “for the procurement, delivery, and assembly of cargo transloading equipment,” according to the press release from Higgins, R-Lafayette.

The United States Marine Highway Program funding, which is made available through regular appropriations, will provide the port with a 220-ton crane and 25-ton forklift that will be utilized to improve the efficiency and safety of the port transportation service, the congressman said.

“This funding is welcome news,” Higgins said in the press release. “The Port of Morgan City is home to a thriving maritime industry that promotes industrial growth in St. Mary Parish.

“In times of great economic uncertainty, ensuring that our ports run in an efficient and effective manner is crucial to better serving our community and this great nation.”