San Diego, July 23, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has awarded the Port of San Diego US $5.55 million through the America’s Marine Highway Program. The funding will support critical repairs and upgrades to berths at the National City Marine Terminal (NCMT), a vital logistics hub on San Diego Bay.
The investment will strengthen terminal resilience, improve vessel turnaround times, and enhance the port’s role in regional coastal shipping. The project aligns with a broader effort to shift freight from congested highways to more sustainable maritime routes, boosting both environmental and economic performance.
“We’re grateful to our federal and regional partners for their continued support and investment in maritime infrastructure,” said Danielle Moore, Chair of the Port Commission.
NCMT’s berth upgrades are a cornerstone of the West Coast M-5 Coastal Connector initiative, a collaboration between ports including San Diego, Bellingham, and the Oregon Shipping Group—aimed at expanding short-sea freight services and alleviating traffic along the I-5 corridor.
To complement the federal award, the Port of San Diego will contribute US $9.7 million in matching funds from its 2021 Economic Recovery Program. The project has already received environmental clearance under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), meaning implementation can begin without delay.
Why It Matters
- Infrastructure Resilience: The repairs will improve the structural integrity and lifespan of aging berths, ensuring long-term operability.
- Freight Efficiency: Faster vessel loading and unloading will support quicker turnaround times and more predictable supply chains.
- Environmental Impact: Expanding maritime freight routes helps cut emissions by reducing truck congestion on Southern California highways.
- Economic Development: The project is expected to stimulate local jobs and increase port competitiveness in handling coastal and intermodal cargo.
What’s Next
The Port will soon begin contractor selection and engineering planning. Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, with full completion targeted by the end of 2027.
This initiative underscores the Port of San Diego’s strategic focus on sustainability, resilience, and efficient cargo handling. As maritime infrastructure becomes increasingly vital to supply chain reliability, projects like this position NCMT and the region for long-term success.
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