$7.9 million federal grant awarded for barge facility at Port Mackenzie

The U.S. Department of Transportation has approved a $7.9 million grant for a barge ramp at Port MacKenzie, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough’s port on Knik Arm in Upper Cook Inlet.

The grant fund the construction of the 60,000 square-foot barge ramp, enhancing the port’s capacity for barge haul-out and loading operations. Port MacKenzie is designed mostly for bulk commodity handling, but with ample land available the barge ramp would expand business opportunities.

Barge operators would be able to efficiently move barges out of the water for winter storage and maintenance. State Rep. Kevin McCabe, R-Big Lake, said the borough is pursuing other opportunities for the port through the House Armed Services Committee.

“This grant is a game-changer for Port MacKenzie and the Mat-Su Borough, but it’s just the beginning.This barge ramp will spark economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen Alaska’s infrastructure,” McCabe said.

“Together with Mat-Su Borough leaders we’re leveraging federal programs to transform our region. We’re already exploring additional funding, including through the House Armed Services Committee to fuel Port MacKenzie’s future,” he said.

Port MacKenzie port managers will brief the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly on the latest developments at a special assembly meeting Tuesday, July 15.