The Maritime Administration has announced the recipients of the 2024 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) grants, with the Village of Hennepin, Illinois, in partnership with VAA, securing a record-breaking $38 million award. This grant, the largest PIDP allocation to Illinois since the program's inception in 2019, will fund a major upgrade to the area's soybean distribution infrastructure.
The project aims to meet growing demand for soybean distribution in Northern Illinois, a key hub for soybean products and co-products. Planned improvements include:
- A modern barge terminal and dolphin for efficient cargo handling
- A new pipeline and conveyor system to streamline product transport
- Upgraded high-efficiency lighting and electrical infrastructure
- A 700-foot waterfront dock
This grant is part of a larger $580 million investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, funding 31 port improvement projects across 15 states. VAA's Port and River Terminal Design team played a crucial role in securing this funding, leveraging their expertise in grant funding assistance and maritime industry experience.
VAA's involvement extends beyond the application process, offering ongoing support throughout the grant funding lifecycle, including advocacy, tracking, reporting, and reimbursement management. With this success, VAA is poised to assist more clients in the upcoming 2025 grant applications.
The PIDP grants are highly competitive, awarded to projects that enhance port efficiency, safety, and reliability in goods transportation. This significant investment in Hennepin's port infrastructure is expected to boost the region's economic competitiveness and streamline soybean distribution operations.
