“We are honored to be part of MARAD’s Marine Highway program. It is a great asset to expand domestic trade via sea versus roadway and the region will benefit economically and environmentally. The route will also provide new opportunities for U.S. flagged vessels and merchant mariners. We are excited to get this program up and running,” commented Jonathan Daniels, Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director.
The first company to sell the service on this new route will be National Shipping of America (NSA). In South Florida, Port Everglades is the first port to earn this designation and is among only 45 others nationwide.
Marine Highways are navigable waterways which can be used as different options to conventional methods of transport. Traditionally, in the case of the NSA, cargo bound for South Florida is transported from Texas by rail. These containers will be taken off the roads by the new M-10/M-95/M-2 Marine Highway, reducing traffic and pollution and improving quality.
The classification also opens up new opportunities for direct Port Everglades service to Puerto Rico and to the USVI.
The Marine Highway Program of MARAD will allow Port Everglades to apply for federal funding that can be used to modernize boats, buy, lease or change equipment and upgrade terminal infrastructure.
Maritime Business World