Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor awarded $11.2M federal grant for modernization

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 30, 2026

The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor received an $11.2 million federal grant to upgrade its cargo handling equipment and support future international container services. This investment, part of a larger $498 million effort to strengthen U.S. port infrastructure, will enhance the port's capacity to boost regional trade and economic growth.

The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor in Portage has received an $11.2 million federal grant aimed at modernizing its cargo handling capabilities, including the acquisition of specialized equipment to support future international container service. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration as part of a broader $498 million investment to upgrade 35 ports across 19 states to enhance the nation’s supply chain resilience.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the port funding on Tuesday, following his visit to Burns Harbor in June. The overall project at the port is valued at $14 million, with Ports of Indiana contributing $2.8 million toward the effort.

The modernization project includes the purchase of a mobile harbor crane capable of switching between bulk grabs, breakbulk lifting gear, and container spreaders. Additional equipment planned includes bulk-handling attachments, reach stackers, a top handler, and off-road yard trucks. This array of machinery will enable the port to expand its handling capacity for steel, bulk materials, construction supplies, project cargo, and incoming container traffic.

Governor Mike Braun emphasized the strategic importance of Indiana’s ports, stating that the investment will help Burns Harbor increase throughput and provide Hoosier farmers and manufacturers with improved access to global markets. Erica Jackson, Ports of Indiana chief financial officer, highlighted that the federal grant, combined with state funding, will optimize existing dock and terminal infrastructure while generating new revenue streams for sustained port growth.

U.S. Senator Todd Young underscored Indiana’s geographic advantage along the Great Lakes, noting the grant as a critical step to broaden Burns Harbor’s shipping capabilities and enhance trade opportunities for Indiana businesses. Similarly, Senator Jim Banks described the grant as a significant boost for the port’s container handling operations and overall modernization effort.

According to data from Ports of Indiana, Burns Harbor handles an average annual volume of 324 barges, 81 ships, 350,000 trucks, and 10,000 rail cars over the past decade. The port supports an economic impact estimated at $4.63 billion, generates $363 million in local and state tax revenue, and sustains approximately 28,400 jobs in the region.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.