Senators Coons and Blunt Rochester, Rep. McBride Announce $6 Million Investment in Port of Wilmington

WILMINGTON, Del. — Today, U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester and U.S. Representative Sarah McBride (all D-Del.) announced $6 million in federal funding for the Port of Wilmington Auto Logistics Infrastructure Improvement Project through the U.S. Maritime Administration's (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP).

This investment will support critical infrastructure improvements at the Port, helping to expand its capacity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen its long-term resilience. The funding announcement follows a letter from Delaware's congressional delegation to the U.S. Department of Transportation in support of the grant application sent in May.

"The Port of Wilmington plays a critical role in moving goods throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and across the country," said Senators Coons and Blunt Rochester and Rep. McBride. "We're proud to have helped secure this funding to modernize infrastructure, strengthen the Port's resilience against flooding, and support its continued growth. The Port supports thousands of local, union jobs, and investments like these are essential to protecting those jobs, strengthening Delaware's economy, and ensuring that the surrounding Wilmington and Edgemoor communities benefit from the Port's success."

As automotive exports increase, the Port of Wilmington requires expanded facilities and improved infrastructure to accommodate growing demand. The Auto Logistics Infrastructure Improvement Project will support targeted upgrades, including roadway improvements, expanded vehicle storage lots, and construction of new storage facilities. Together, these improvements will help the Port increase its capacity to continue its role in international trade, attract new business, remain competitive, and better protect cargo operations from storm-related disruptions.

“We see a significant opportunity for growth in automotive and roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) cargo at Port Wilmington, and this funding will help us build the infrastructure necessary to support it,” said Steven Rand, President of Enstructure Auto Logistics. “Expanded paved lots, improved roadways, and modern processing facilities will help us pursue new opportunities across the Mid-Atlantic while delivering reliable service for our current customers and supporting union jobs. We appreciate the delegation’s confidence in Enstructure and its recognition of Port Wilmington’s role in the regional automotive supply chain and the local economy.”

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