Fiscal Year 2026 United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP)

The United States Marine Highway Program is administered by the Maritime Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation. It is a federal discretionary grant program authorized under federal statute to support projects that expand the use of waterborne transportation as an alternative to traditional land-based freight and passenger movement. The program is designed to relieve congestion on highways and rail systems, improve supply chain efficiency, and strengthen the resilience of the national transportation network. Funding is appropriated through federal legislation and distributed through a competitive application process outlined in an official Notice of Funding Opportunity. The primary purpose of this program is to fund projects that develop, expand, or promote Marine Highway Transportation services operating along designated routes. These projects must demonstrate a clear ability to shift freight or passenger traffic from congested landside systems to waterways. Eligible activities include capital improvements, development phase work such as planning and design, and broader transportation planning initiatives. The program emphasizes projects that deliver measurable benefits such as reduced vehicle miles traveled, improved safety outcomes, and enhanced economic competitiveness. Funding for this opportunity includes both newly appropriated funds and prior-year unobligated funds, totaling over ten million dollars available for distribution. There is no defined minimum or maximum award size, allowing flexibility in project scale. However, federal funding typically may not exceed eighty percent of total project costs, requiring a minimum twenty percent non-federal match. Exceptions may apply for tribal governments and projects located in rural areas, and certain insular areas may receive waivers for smaller match requirements. Funds must be used strictly for eligible project activities and cannot be used for operating subsidies or pre-award expenses unless specifically authorized. Eligibility for this program is broad and includes state governments, local governments, metropolitan planning organizations, port authorities, tribal governments, and certain private sector entities involved in marine transportation. Private applicants must obtain endorsement from a designated Marine Highway Route Sponsor. Applicants may form partnerships or coalitions, but must designate a lead entity responsible for compliance and financial management. Each applicant may submit only one application, and joint applications must clearly define roles and responsibilities among participating entities. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov and include required components such as the Standard Form 424, a detailed project narrative, and supporting documentation including financial commitment letters. The project narrative must describe the technical aspects of the project, funding sources, project schedule, and alignment with evaluation criteria. Evaluation is based on merit criteria including demonstrated need, expected benefits, project support, and financial viability, along with additional considerations such as technical capacity and innovation. The application deadline for this funding cycle is August 31, 2026, with submissions required by late evening Eastern Time. The review process includes multiple phases, including eligibility screening, technical evaluation, and senior review before final selection by the Secretary of Transportation. Awards are expected to be announced by late October 2026. Selected projects must meet federal compliance requirements, including environmental review, and will receive funding on a reimbursement basis. Recipients are required to report performance metrics and project outcomes for several years following completion. Program administration includes strict post-award requirements such as quarterly reporting, adherence to federal procurement standards, and compliance with domestic sourcing laws. Projects must demonstrate readiness and the ability to proceed without delay, as well as long-term financial viability. The program is recurring annually, subject to appropriations, and applicants are encouraged to monitor future funding cycles and updates through official federal channels.

Focus on demonstrating measurable transportation benefits strong cost share and financial viability include clear project schedule and stakeholder support