Peters Announces $15 Million in Federal Funding for Port of Monroe

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced that the Port of Monroe has received a $15 million federal investment from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to support critical dock upgrades and modernize operations. The funding comes from DOT’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). Peters advocated for the Port of Monroe’s application for this federal funding. “The Port of Monroe plays a critical role in connecting Michigan to regional and global shipping partners, helping to safely and efficiently transport products that our families and businesses depend on every day,” said Senator Peters . “I was proud to help secure this funding for the Port to make necessary upgrades that will improve operations and strengthen key Michigan supply chains.” “Senator Peters’ unrelenting support of the Port of Monroe has been and continues to be one of the greatest honors of my career. His dedication to the citizens of Michigan is unparalleled and his recognition of the Great Lakes maritime industry’s vital role to a prosperous economy is unmatched,” said Captain Paul C. LaMarre III, President of the American Great Lakes Ports Association and Port Director in Monroe, Michigan. “ This funding will ensure that aging infrastructure at the Port of Monroe is revived and ready for any and all cargoes to support Michigan industry now and in the future.” Specifically, this grant funding will allow the Port of Monroe to eliminate failing infrastructure and modernize critical waterfront assets. Upgrades include rehabilitation of key riverfront docking areas and electric power systems, which will support uninterrupted operations at the port. Additionally, the funding will help the Port of Monroe become the first SAFE Port Act compliant facility on the Great Lakes, which will provide the Midwest with a direct and efficient link to global trade, reducing reliance on congested coastal gateways and anchoring long-term growth for manufacturers and exporters. Peters has long prioritized strengthening Michigan’s shipping ports, including the Port of Monroe. Since 2020, Peters has repeatedly fought to secure robust funding for the port, including investments to expand cargo capacity, purchase new crane equipment, and upgrade cargo screening infrastructure. In 2025, Peters also introduced bipartisan legislation to help ensure Great Lakes ports receive a fair share of PIDP funding. In 2024, Peters convened a field hearing to examine the impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on Michigan’s transportation infrastructure. Captain LaMarre testified at the hearing and reiterated that expanded freight capacity at the Port of Monroe will bolster Michigan’s and the nation’s critical supply chains. In 2021, Peters toured the Port of Monroe with Customs and Border Protection officials to discuss cargo clearance challenges facing the port. In a video released as part of Peters’ On the Job for Michigan video series, Captain LaMarre highlighted the importance of Peters’ advocacy for positioning the Port of Monroe for continued success. ###