Ports of Indiana awarded $11.2 million federal grant to modernize Burns Harbor port

PORTAGE, Ind., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor has been awarded $11.2 million through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) to modernize its cargo handling, including the specialized equipment needed to support future international container service. The grant is part of a $498 million investment announced today by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy to modernize 35 port projects across 19 states and strengthen America's supply chains.

"Indiana is the Crossroads of America, and our ports are a big part of what makes that true," said Governor Mike Braun. "This investment helps Burns Harbor move more goods faster and gives Hoosier farmers and manufacturers a more direct path to customers around the world." 

"This grant is a smart investment in Indiana's port infrastructure," said Ports of Indiana Chief Financial Officer Erica Jackson. "Paired with our own funding, it puts existing docks and terminal space to work and creates new revenue to support the port long term. We are grateful to our congressional partners, Secretary Duffy and MARAD for their partnership."

The Burns Harbor Container Handling Modernization Project will fund a mobile harbor crane, bulk-handling attachments, reach stackers, a top handler, off-road yard trucks, and more. The equipment will also strengthen the port's existing operations. The mobile harbor crane can switch between bulk grabs, breakbulk lifting gear, and container spreaders allowing Burns Harbor to handle more steel, bulk materials, construction materials and project cargo alongside future container traffic when market demand arises. The $14 million project includes a $2.8 million match from Ports of Indiana.

"Indiana's location along the Great Lakes gives our state a unique advantage in moving goods and supporting American commerce," said U.S. Senator Todd Young. "Securing the federal investment needed to expand Burns Harbor's shipping capabilities, create new opportunities for Indiana businesses, and strengthen our state's role in domestic and international trade has been a priority of mine for years. I thank Secretary Duffy for his partnership in supporting this important project."

Supporting Quotes:

"Burns Harbor is the beating heart of Indiana's economy," said U.S. Senator Jim Banks. "This is a major grant to support the port's Container Handling project and modernize its operations. I appreciate Secretary Duffy and the Department of Transportation recognizing the value of this project to Indiana."

"Congratulations to Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor on securing this critical federal funding to further enhance economic development and job-creation in Northwest Indiana," said Congressman Frank Mrvan. "Let us build on these successful initiatives with all local, state, and federal officials to continue to support our region's world-class manufacturing workforce and capabilities."

About Ports of Indiana: Ports of Indiana is a statewide port authority operating three ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan. Established in 1961, Ports of Indiana is a self-funded enterprise dedicated to growing Indiana's economy by developing and maintaining a world-class port system and by serving as a statewide resource for maritime issues, international trade, and multimodal logistics. For additional information, visit www.portsofindiana.com. 

SOURCE Ports of Indiana