The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) today awarded a $449,231 grant to support capital improvements at Patti Marine Enterprise, Inc. in Pensacola, FL. Provided through MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant program, the funding supports capital improvements that foster increased efficiency and economic growth.
“These grants are an investment in our country’s small shipyards like Patti Marine Enterprise, Inc. and will help create good jobs for America’s workers,†said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
America’s shipyards support more than 400,000 jobs and contribute more than $37 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the nation’s economy. Small shipyards vary in size, but have under 1,200 production employees to be eligible for grant awards. They play a significant role in our country’s maritime sector, contributing to our nation’s economy, supporting national security, maintaining critical infrastructure, and creating employment opportunities for working families and in small communities.
Patti Marine Enterprise, Inc. is the only shipyard of its kind within the Port of Pensacola that builds a range of vessels from customized fishing vessels to ocean and inland tugboats. They will use their grant to purchase a plasma cutting machine and iron worker which will increase their production capability and efficiency.
“By supporting small shipyards like Patti Marine Enterprise, Inc. we are investing in the maritime infrastructure of the country,†said Maritime Administrator Mark H. Buzby.
Since 2008, MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant Program has awarded over $183 million to more than 180 small shipyards. These grants help fund upgrades and expansions in this critical industry, allowing shipyards to compete more effectively in a rapidly changing global marketplace. As shipyards increase their repair and production footprints, these grants help to create more jobs throughout the country.