Infrastructure upgrades will improve agricultural cargo handling, expand berthing space and support efficient vessel operations.
FREEPORT, Texas — November 4, 2026 — Port Freeport has secured a $9,412,500 federal grant through the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program to modernize its bulk rice-handling facilities and strengthen infrastructure supporting agricultural trade.
The funding will help replace aging equipment, improve rice storage capabilities and expand available berthing space, supporting more reliable cargo handling and efficient vessel operations.
Modernizing Rice-Handling Equipment and Storage
The project includes three primary improvements:
- Replacement of a 25-year-old bulk rice loader to improve cargo-handling reliability.
- Installation of a new rack system inside the existing rice storage shed.
- Relocation of the shed’s southern wall to increase available berthing space.
Together, these upgrades will modernize existing facilities and improve the port’s ability to handle agricultural commodities moving through its maritime terminal.
“This investment strengthens Port Freeport’s ability to support agricultural imports and exports while maintaining the infrastructure necessary to serve our customers and regional industries,” said Rob Giesecke, chairman of the Port Freeport Commission. “We appreciate the support of Senator Ted Cruz, Senator John Cornyn, and Congressman Randy Weber in securing federal funding that supports continued economic growth and strengthens our region’s position in global trade.”
Strengthening Agricultural Trade and Port Competitiveness
The bulk rice project builds on Port Freeport’s ongoing investment in cargo-handling infrastructure. The improvements will support existing customers while positioning the port to accommodate future growth in agricultural cargo operations.
“Investing in modern infrastructure is essential to meeting the evolving needs of our customers and maintaining Port Freeport’s competitive advantage,” said Phyllis Saathoff, executive director and CEO of Port Freeport. “These upgrades will improve the reliability and efficiency of existing cargo handling operations while positioning the port for future growth.”
Part of Nearly $498 Million in Federal Port Investments
Port Freeport’s grant is part of a nearly $498 million federal investment supporting 35 port infrastructure projects across 19 states, announced by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy.
Administered by the U.S. Maritime Administration, the Port Infrastructure Development Program funds improvements that strengthen supply chains, enhance port operations and support the movement of goods through the nation’s maritime transportation system.
About Port Freeport
Port Freeport is a major Texas gateway for international commerce and a leading port for crude oil and natural gas liquids exports. The port ranks sixth nationally in chemicals, 13th in total foreign waterborne tonnage and fourth among Texas ports by total foreign waterborne tonnage.
According to a 2022 economic impact study by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, the Freeport Harbor Channel supports 266,300 jobs nationwide and generates $157.3 billion in total economic output.
The port serves customers across agriculture, automotive, energy, chemicals, container shipping and other industrial sectors.
Media Contact:
Amanda Veliz
Public Affairs Manager, Port Freeport
Phone: (979) 233-2667 ext. 4306
Email: veliz@portfreeport.com
