The Port of Beaumont has received more than $ 7.6 million in earmark funding as part of H.R. 3, The Transportation Bill approved by Congress in late July.

The six-year bill provides $ 286 billion for federal highway, transit and safety programs throughout the United States.

US Representative Judge Ted Poe, (District 2, Texas) presented a symbolic check for $ 7,686,400 to Port of Beaumont commissioners and Executive Port Director David C. Fisher Wednesday, August 3. The check represented the funds appropriated by Congress for two projects at the port:

  • Southside Intermodal Improvements -- $ 5, 190,400

This project will provide improved access and operational capabilities for the Port of Beaumont, including infrastructure modifications and expansion of facilities for direct intermodal interchange, transfer and acess.

  • Northside Intermodal Improvements -- $ 2,496,000

This project is for development and construction of access roads connecting Interstate 10 to port-owned property on the north bank of the Neches River.

In announcing the awards for the port, Congressman Poe said, "This provides the funding for all of the intermodal infrastructure needed by the port to accomplish the relocation and expansion of rail facilities and improved security and efficiency for military cargo."

The port has previously received more than $ 7 million for rail infrastructure improvements under a federal program designed to promote air quality and congestion reduction.

Planned intermodal improvements at the port, including the northside and southside projects, are valued in excess of $ 19 million.

Executive Port Director David C. Fisher said the funds provided under the federal transportation bill will have the following benefits to the port:

  • Enhance the port's capacity for railcars
  • Improve the port's ability to handle military cargo
  • Enhance security for military and other cargo
  • Increase the efficiency of port operations
  • Make downtown riverfront property available for commercial development

Construction on the first phase of improvements could begin by the end of this year.