EDA to Award Port MacKenzie $7.6M Grant

The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded $7.6 Million to Port MacKenzie to fund infrastructure improvements designed to increase the operating efficiency at the port.

“We are grateful to the EDA for their support  and for recognizing Port MacKenzie  as a key element  of Alaska’s transportation system.” - Therese Dolan, Port Operations Manager

EDA’S total investment toward the project is $7,590,192. The estimated project cost is $9,487,740

The grant will help pay for the installation of 64 steel pile sleeves on the existing deep draft dock to protect against corrosion, strengthen the dock, increasing its useful life. The grant also supports the addition of a roll-on, roll-off cargo dock that will expand Port MacKenzie’s capabilities, helping mitigate the effects of future disasters by offering transportation alternatives to the marine industry, creating jobs, generating private investment, while strengthening the regional economy.  

In an EDA press release issued July 29, 2021, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo states, “President Biden sees the tremendous value and potential of strengthening America’s blue economy.”

Alaska Governor Michael Dunleavey sees a Port with potential. “Port MacKenzie is a key piece of infrastructure to growing Alaska’s economy, moving cargo and Alaska’s abundant natural resources directly from the Mat-Su. This targeted investment will go a long way to keep Alaskans working while also improving our critical infrastructure at Port MacKenzie,” Gov. Dunleavy said.

Matanuska-Susitna Borough Manager, Mike Brown shares similar views of Port MacKenzie’s potential. "The Borough is very pleased with EDA's announcement of the $7.6 million grant. This investment in Port MacKenzie provides the Borough additional resources to maintain our port infrastructure and services, ensuring this key asset remains viable in supporting Alaskans and our economic growth.”

For more information contact Port Operations Manager Therese Dolan at 907-861-7799 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..