Wilmington port seeks federal grant for improvements

WILMINGTON, NC (AP) — The North Carolina State Ports Authority is seeking a federal grant to pay for improvements to container berths and wharfs in Wilmington.

Spokesman Cliff Pyron told the Star-News of Wilmington the ports authority has not yet decided how much money to seek. The application is due April 29.

Pyron says the agency wants to prepare for global changes by making improvements to its terminal, equipment and shipping channel.

The U.S. Transportation Department allows areas like Wilmington to apply for grants ranging from $5 million to $100 million. Pyron said the money could pay for the reconstruction of two container berths, waterside wharf improvements and the installation of a crane rail line.

The ports authority is using state funds to buy two new cranes and make other improvements.
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